Search Constraints

Search Results

  • Royal Assent to Bill C-81, Accessible Canada Act: highlights

    Resource Type:
    Video
    Creator:
    AccessibiliTV and Accommodation Councilors of Canada Network
    Description:
    Highlights of documentary footage from June 21, 2019, proceedings of the Senate, when Bill C-81 received Royal Assent. Subtitled in English.
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Royal Assent to Bill C-81, Accessible Canada Act: documentary footage and interviews

    Resource Type:
    Video
    Creator:
    Accommodation Councilors of Canada Network
    Description:
    Two and a half hours of documentary footage from June 21, 2019, proceedings of the Senate when Bill C-81 received Royal Assent. The footage takes viewers behind the scenes with individuals closely involved with ensuring the Act received Royal Assent and features interviews with the Honourable Carla Qualtrough, Senator Jim Munson, James van Raalte, Sinead Tuite, Bill Adair, and Frank Folino.
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Art as a transformative practice: A participatory action research project with trans* youth

    Resource Type:
    Article
    Creator:
    Tierney, Cara, Lundy, Jess, Asakura, Kenta, and Black, Dillon
    Date Created:
    2019-10-03

  • Sustainable Energy Options for the Future of MoCreebec Eeyoud - November 2019

    Resource Type:
    Article
    Creator:
    Russell, Joshua, Coady, Joseph, Schott, Stephan, Duquette, Jean, Lafreniere, Keelia, and Chabot, Jean-Pierre
    Date Created:
    2019-11-01

  • Effective Community Project Planning for Academics

    Resource Type:
    Other
    Creator:
    Bokore, Nimo
    Date Created:
    2019-08-01

  • Effective Collaborative Research Project Plan for Community Organizations

    Resource Type:
    Other
    Creator:
    Bokore, Nimo
    Date Created:
    2019-08-01

  • Effective Project Planning for Students

    Resource Type:
    Other
    Creator:
    Bokore, Nimo
    Date Created:
    2019-08-01

  • Moving the Needle on Poverty

    Resource Type:
    Book
    Creator:
    Kozak, Aaron, Weaver, Liz, Goemans, Magdalene, and Schwartz, Karen
    Description:
    Edited by Karen Schwartz, Liz Weaver, Aaron Kozak & Magdalene Goemans. Produced by the Poverty Reduction Hub of Community First: Impacts of Community Engagement (CFICE), a Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC)-funded project, coled by Carleton University and Vibrant Communities (an imprint of Tamarack Institute). CFICE website:  https://carleton.ca/communityfirst/
    Abstract:
    Contents: Preface - Pathways to Poverty Reduction through Community-Campus Partnerships Chapter One: Creating Strategic Partnerships to Influence Policy (Liz Weaver) Chapter Two: Models of Community-Campus Engagement in the Poverty Reduction Hub of CFICE (Karen Schwartz) Chapter Three: University and Community Collaboration: Achieving Social Change (Erin Bigney, Tracey Chiasson, Melanie Hientz, Robert MacKinnon and Cathy Wright) Chapter Four: On a Path of True Reconciliation: Investing in a Poverty-free Saskatoon (Colleen Christopherson-Côté, Lisa Erickson, Isobel M. Findlay and Vanessa Charles) Chapter Five: Using Campus Community Engagement to Build Capacity for Poverty Reduction (Amanda Lefrancois) Chapter Six: Shifting Societal Attitudes Regarding Poverty: Reflections on a Successful Community-University Partnership ( Mary MacKeigan, Jessica Wiese, Terry Mitchell, Colleen Loomis and Alexa Stovold) Chapter Seven: Models of Collaboration: Does Community Engagement with University Colleges Have an Impact on Poverty Reduction? (Polly Leonard and Karen Schwartz) Chapter Eight: A Peephole into the Student Experience: Student Research Assistants on their Experiences in the Poverty Reduction Hub (Aaron Kozak, Zhaocheng Zeng and Natasha Pei) Chapter Nine: Poverty Reduction Hub Evaluation (Aaron Kozak, Karen Schwartz, Amanda Lefrancois and Liz Weaver) Chapter Ten: Conclusion (Magdalene Goemans)
    Date Created:
    2019-06-20

  • Media and Internet Concentration in Canada 1984 – 2017

    Resource Type:
    Report
    Creator:
    Winseck, Dwayne
    Description:
    Part of a series from the CMCRP - visit the CMCRP website for additional background. See also the related overview Poster - Canada’s Top Media, Internet & Telecom Companies by Market Share (2017) The workbook and reports were revised in early January 2019 to replace estimated revenue values for the mobile wireless, internet access and internet advertising markets with published final revenue figures from the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) on December 21, 2018 and by the Internet Advertising Bureau of Canada on December 10, 2018.
    Abstract:
    This report examines the state of competition in the mobile wireless market, internet access, broadcast, pay and streaming TV services, internet advertising, advertising across all media, newspapers, browsers, online news sources, search, social media, operating systems, etc. in Canada over the period from 1984 until 2017. We call the sum-total of these media “the network media economy”. We then use two common metrics—Concentration Ratios and the Herfindahl-Hirschman Index (HHI)—to determine whether these markets—individually and collectively—are competitive or concentrated.
    Date Created:
    2019-01-06

  • Growth of the Network Media Economy in Canada, 1984-2017

    Resource Type:
    Report
    Creator:
    Winseck, Dwayne
    Description:
    Part of a series from the CMCRP - visit the CMCRP website for additional background. The workbook and reports were revised in early January 2019 to replace estimated revenue values for the mobile wireless, internet access and internet advertising markets with published final revenue figures from the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) on December 21, 2018 and by the Internet Advertising Bureau of Canada on December 10, 2018.
    Abstract:
    The report examines the development of the media economy over the past thirty-three years. We do so by examining a dozen or so of the biggest telecoms, internet and media industries in Canada, based on revenue. These include: mobile wireless and wireline telecoms; internet access; cable, satellite & IPTV; broad- cast, specialty, pay and over-the-top TV; radio; newspapers; magazines; music; and internet advertising. We call the total of these sectors “the network media economy”. Our method is simple: we begin by collecting, organizing, and making available stand-alone data for each media industry individually. We then group related, comparable industry sectors into three higher level categories: the “network media” (e.g. mobile wireless, internet access, broadcast distribution), the “content media” (e.g. television, newspapers, magazines, etc.) and “internet media” (e.g. internet advertising, search, internet news sources). Ultimately, we combine them all together to get a bird’s-eye view of the network media economy. We call this the scaffolding approach.
    Date Created:
    2019-01-06

  • Growth and Upheaval in the Network Media Economy, 1984-2018

    Resource Type:
    Report
    Creator:
    Winseck, Dwayne
    Description:
    Part of a series from the CMCRP. Visit the CMCRP website for project details and background:  http://www.cmcrp.org
    Abstract:
    This report examines the development of the media economy over the past thirtyfour years. Since beginning this project nearly a decade ago, we have focused on as comprehensive as possible selection of the biggest telecoms, internet and media industries (based on revenue), including: mobile wireless and wireline telecoms; internet access; cable, satellite & IPTV; broadcast television, specialty and pay television services and over-the-internet video subscription and download services; radio; newspapers; magazines; music; internet advertising; social media; operating systems; browsers, etc. This year, we have made some fairly dramatic changes in terms of what we cover, and the breadth of our analysis. For the first time, this report takes some preliminary steps to capture a broader range of audiovisual media services that are delivered over the internet beyond online video subscription and download services and internet advertising, including: online gaming, app store and music downloads.
    Date Created:
    2019-12-13

  • Media and Internet Concentration in Canada, 1984 – 2018

    Resource Type:
    Report
    Creator:
    Winseck, Dwayne
    Description:
    Part of a series from the CMCRP. Visit the CMCRP website for project details and background:  http://www.cmcrp.org
    Abstract:
    Every year the Canadian Media Concentration Research Project puts out two reports on the state of the telecoms, internet, and media industries in Canada. This is the second installment in this year’s series. Whereas the first report in this series examines the growth, development and upheaval that are transforming the media industries in Canada, this report takes a step further by asking a deceptively simple but profoundly important question: have these industries—individually and collectively—become more or less concentrated over time? The report does so by examining the state of competition and concentration in the mobile wireless and wireline telecoms market, broadband internet access, cable, satellite & IPTV services, broadcast television and radio, specialty and pay television services, online video subscription and download services, newspapers, magazines, internet advertising, search engines, social media as well as mobile and desktop operating systems and browsers. This year’s report also adds significantly to our efforts last year to examine the dynamics of advertising spending across all media in Canada, i.e. TV, radio, online, newspapers, magazines and out-of-doors. As we noted in our first report, we have also significantly expanded our coverage by taking some preliminary steps to capture a broader range of audiovisual media services that are delivered over the internet.
    Date Created:
    2019-12-13

  • Final Evaluation Report: Evaluating the Impact of Lanark County Mental Health’s “Buried in Treasures” Hoarding Treatment Program

    Resource Type:
    Report
    Creator:
    van de Sande, Adje, Feder, Zoey, Ang, Steven, and McIntosh, Karen
    Date Created:
    2019-03-06

  • A Project Development Checklist for Community-Based Research

    Resource Type:
    Report
    Creator:
    Centre for Studies on Poverty and Social Citizenship
    Description:
    Special thanks to the Toolkit researchers, including Tara McWhinney, Aaron Kozak and Evan Culic for their contributions towards building this toolkit. Cette publication est aussi disponible en français.
    Abstract:
    This Community-Based Research Toolkit is intended for community organizations trying to decide if they want to conduct research, and whether they should seek an academic partner to work with to conduct this research. This toolkit is designed as a project development checklist that acts as a guide for things to consider for community organizations conducting a research project.
    Date Created:
    2019-07-02

  • Report: Recruitment and Retention of Rural Physicians

    Resource Type:
    Report
    Creator:
    Petrie, Sam, Sendanyoye, Claudia, Sebastian, Steven, Carson, Dean, and Peters, Paul A.
    Description:
    See also Carleton's Spatial Determinants of Health Lab:  https://carleton.ca/determinants
    Abstract:
    Rural and remote communities comprise around32% and 22% of Australia’s and Canada’s population. However, only 14% and 16% of family physicians in Australia and Canada, respectively, practice in these communities, resulting in a disproportion in access as compared with urban areas. An erosion of health services occurs when the number of physicians and other health care providers in a region is insufficient or these professionals are non-existent. Even when existing in a rural and remote region, providers are often overburdened. Inaccessibility to services in rural and remote communities’ results in poor health outcomes for all involved. In Canada, 1 in 7 physicians will leave rural practice within two years. Strategies to address these turnover rates and the lessening interest in entering rural practice have focused on supporting recruitment and retention initiatives (RnR) to first bring physicians into rural practice and then encourage physicians to continue in rural practice beyond the short-term. These programs have so far been insufficient or ineffective to address the lack of physicians in rural and remote areas. A review of recent literature related to RnR initiatives focused on rural physicians in Australia and Canada was conducted to investigate the strengths and limitations of initiatives. Further, this review critically examines the short and long-term feasibility of initiatives and develops a conceptual framework for designing or examining RnR initiatives.
    Date Created:
    2019-07-12

  • Patient and Provider Perspectives on Rural eHealth Interventions

    Resource Type:
    Report
    Creator:
    Paskaran, Saambavi, Carson, Dean B., Leblanc, Michele, Petrie, Sam, and Peters, Paul A.
    Description:
    Visit the Spatial Determinants of Health Lab website at  https://carleton.ca/determinants
    Abstract:
    Although health care is widely accessible in most developed countries, rural areas often struggle to adequately meet health care needs. Challenges in accessing and receiving adequate health care introduce large variations in disease levels, level of treatment, life expectancy,and overall health status for rural populations. eHealth, or electronic health,defined here as any electronic medium used to access health services,is a method used to bridge the gap between rural and urban centers to improve health care access. Including the above definition, eHealth also includes any technology designed to improve efficiencies and reduce costs in relation to health care. By providing a comprehensive overview of feedback from past interventions, policy-makers and program developers can develop strategies to improve the implementation and the use of eHealth technologies.
    Date Created:
    2019-08-12

  • Best Practices for Rural eMental Health

    Resource Type:
    Report
    Creator:
    Petrie, Samuel, LeBlanc, Michele, Peters, Paul A., Aboukarr, Sereen, Paskaran, Saambavi, and Carson, Dean B.
    Description:
    Visit the Spatial Determinants of Health Lab website at  https://carleton.ca/determinants
    Abstract:
    A review of recent literature related to eHealth technologies in Canada and Australia was conducted to better understand specific barriers and enablers for the uptake, acceptability, and success of eMental health programs. It has been shown that the more “rural” or “remote” a community, the access to mental health services decreases. By mitigating barriers and promoting enablers, successful eMental health integration can increase access to mental health services for rural residents. eMental health aims to bridge the gap between rural and urban mental health services by introducing electronic methods such as teleconferencing or videoconferencing for psychological services, virtual referral to psychiatrists, and sharing of electronic records. Successful integration of the technology remains a challenging task, with key actors, enablers, and barriers all influencing its success.
    Date Created:
    2019-07-12

  • Report: Interventions for Rural and Remote Youth Mental Health

    Resource Type:
    Report
    Creator:
    Petrie, Sam, Carson, Dean B., Steven, Sebastian, Peters, Paul A., Priest, Liam, Waid, Chelsea, and Sinclair, Laleah
    Description:
    Visit the Spatial Determinants of Health Lab website at  https://carleton.ca/determinants
    Abstract:
    Rural and remote communities in both Australia and Canada have a higher burden of mental illness relative to their urban counterparts. Suicide rates, particularly, are higher across all age groups among men in rural communities as compared to metropolitan areas. Mental health issues are especially present in younger populations within these communities. Additionally, rural and remote communities tend to have higher proportions of Indigenous origin individuals, who face additional challenges and service barriers. Rural and remote communities often encounter significant barriers to accessing mental health care. Individuals from these communities may be serviced solely by general health care providers that are not trained in mental health treatment. Travelling away from the community to alleviate this issue only further hinders accessibility as these individuals must travel larger distances to access specialized health services. When services are accessed, those from rural and remote communities are met with longer wait times than their urban counterparts. With no specialized treatment within the rural or remote community and inaccessible treatment outside the community, mental health care must shift to informal caregivers and the community as a whole. Rural and remote communities are often not trained in mental health care. Interventions to address rural and remote youth mental health are needed to equip communities with the tools and skills to overcome access barriers and support community members. A review of recent literature related to rural and remote youth mental health interventions was conducted. The aim of the review is to characterize these mental health interventions in Australia and Canada and examine how they relate to youth.
    Date Created:
    2019-11-20

  • Report: Telepaediatrics in Rural and Remote Australia and Canada

    Resource Type:
    Report
    Creator:
    Morris, Sydney, Peters, Paul A., LeBlanc, Michele, Steven, Sebastian, Carson, Dean, and Petrie, Sam
    Abstract:
    Rural and remote communities in Australia and Canada experience barriers to accessing healthcare services (1). These barriers are especially pronounced when attempting to access more specialized health care services, such as paediatric (2–4). Both countries have implemented programs that aim to bridge the gap between rural communities and specialized healthcare. One such service is telepaediatrics. Telepaediatrics, as part of telehealth, refers to any paediatric health-related service, network, or medical tool that transmits voice, data, images and information through telecommunication programs as part of providing health services (5–7). Telehealth services are ideal because they remove the need to relocate the rural patient to urban specialist sites (5–7). In a WHO survey (2010), 60% of member countries had telehealth services in place but only 30% of these programs were implemented as part of routine care (8). Only 3 member countries had established telepaediatric services in place (8). No previous investigations examine the use of telehealth programs in urban versus rural settings (8). This review aims to identify the common barriers to telepaediatric services in rural Australia and Canada and outlines suggestions for future implementation.
    Date Created:
    2019-11-20

  • Infographic: Recruitment and Retention of Rural Physicians

    Resource Type:
    Other
    Creator:
    Steven, S., Peters, P.A., Sendanyoye, C., Petrie, S., and Carson, D.B.
    Description:
    Visit the Spatial Determinants of Health Lab website at  https://carleton.ca/determinants
    Date Created:
    2019-07-12

  • Infographic: Rural Youth Mental Health Interventions

    Resource Type:
    Other
    Creator:
    Carson, D.B., Petrie, S., Sinclair, L., Priest, L., Waid, C., Steven, S., and Peters, Paul A.
    Description:
    Visit the Spatial Determinants of Health Lab website at  https://carleton.ca/determinants
    Date Created:
    2019-07-23

  • Infographic: Rural Health Systems. Designing Flexible Policy for Rural Health

    Resource Type:
    Other
    Creator:
    Hodge, Heidi, Carson, Dean, and Peters, Paul A.
    Description:
    Visit the Spatial Determinants of Health Lab website at  https://carleton.ca/determinants
    Date Created:
    2019-05-13

  • Infographic: Telepediatrics in Rural and Remote Regions

    Resource Type:
    Other
    Creator:
    Peters, Paul A., Petrie, S., Carson, D., LeBlanc, M., Steven, S., and Morris, S
    Description:
    Visit the Spatial Determinants of Health Lab website at  https://carleton.ca/determinants
    Date Created:
    2019-08-12

  • Infographic: eHealth Chronic Disease Management for Older Adults

    Resource Type:
    Other
    Creator:
    Paskaran, S., Peters, Paul A., LeBlanc, M., and Petrie, S.
    Description:
    Visit the Spatial Determinants of Health Lab website at  https://carleton.ca/determinants
    Date Created:
    2019-11-20

  • Coal-Fired Electricity – a Regulatory Case Study, in a Narrative of Canada-US Harmonization

    Resource Type:
    Report
    Creator:
    Beale, Mike
    Description:
    More about the Regulatory Governance Initiative (RGI):  https://carleton.ca/rgi
    Abstract:
    Canada’s coal-fired electricity regulations were published in 2012 and were the first federal regulations targeting greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from stationary sources. They have since been strengthened. This case study tells the policy story of how the regulations came about, and how in the space of 18 months the government’s regulatory approach evolved from one based on emissions intensity, to cap-and-trade, to capital stock turnover. It also tells the technical story of how a simple regulation based on the length of time a facility has to operate can still build in elements of trading and other flexibilities. It ends with some observations around lessons learned.
    Date Created:
    2019-05-14

  • A Method for Documenting the Goals and KPIs of Accelerators and Startups

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Cavalcanti, Andre Felipe da Rocha
    Abstract:
    Decision makers in accelerators and startups need to understand how their businesses are currently performing. A comparison between business goals, performance indicators and market benchmarks are a problem for both sides. The central question that accelerators and their associated startups face is what Key Performance Indicators (KPI) they should measure to know whether they achieved their business goals?This thesis proposes the use of goal-oriented modelling as a technique to identify the goals that accelerators and startups pursue and the corresponding KPIs. Its contribution is threefold: it introduces a method for documenting the goals and KPIs of accelerators and their associated startups, conducts an empirical demonstration of the method, and documents an initial goal model that provides a basis for further research. The results are relevant to managers of accelerators and startups as well as entrepreneurship researchers.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Applied Science (M.App.Sc.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Engineering, Technology Innovation Management
    Date Created:
    2019

  • On Designing Adaptive Data Structures with Adaptive Data "Sub"-Structures

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Bisong, Ekaba Ononse
    Abstract:
    This thesis proposes the use of "Adaptive" Data-Structures (ADSs) that invoke reinforcement learning schemes from the theory of Learning Automata (LA). The ADSs work in conjunction with select re-organization rules to update themselves as they receive queries from the Environment. The result of such a process is to minimize the cost of query accesses. The Environments under consideration are those that exhibit a so-called "locality of reference", and are referred to as Non-stationary Environments (NSEs). A hierarchy of data "sub"-structures is used to design Singly-Linked Lists (SLLs) on SLLs, which contains outer and sub-list contexts. The Object Migration Automaton (OMA) family of reinforcement schemes are employed to capture the probabilistic dependence of the elements query accesses from the Environment within sub-lists. The Enhanced-OMA (EOMA), the Pursuit-EOMA (PEOMA), and the Transitivity-PEOMA (TPEOMA) are incorporated into the hierarchical SLLs. The results are currently the state-of-the-art methods for SLLs operating in NSEs.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Computer Science (M.C.S.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Computer Science
    Date Created:
    2019

  • From the National to the Global: The Transformation of the Royal Bank of Canada, 1864–2014

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Garrod, Joel Zackary
    Abstract:
    Many scholars today treat globalization as a new form of imperialism, in which the global political economy remains constituted by competing national capitals and their respective nation-states. This view is shared by many Canadian political economists who, carrying on a longstanding debate, continue to argue that Canada should be understood as either a secondary imperialist power or a dependency of the American empire. In this dissertation, I argue that contemporary theories of imperialism and dependency neglect a number of qualitative changes to the global political economy over the last 40 years that challenge the conceptual framework on which they are based. Through a comparative-historical analysis of the changing assemblages of territory, authority, and rights that have sustained the Royal Bank of Canada's activities from 1864 to 2014, I argue that we should instead treat globalization as a novel epoch constituted by a centrifugal organizing dynamic that is moving the rights of capital and the authority over those rights to the transnational level. I claim that this process is transforming the nation-state from a capability to grow and develop national capitals into a capability for globalizing capitals as a result of new rights that restrict the ability of the nation-state to legislate against corporate interests. The dissertation concludes by reflecting on what this means for the future of Canadian liberal democracy and the struggle against global capitalism.
    Thesis Degree:
    Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Sociology
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Learning in the Multi-Robot Pursuit Evasion Game

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Al-Talabi, Ahmad Abid Atiya
    Abstract:
    This thesis investigates the learning issue for mobile robots playing the differential forms of the pursuit-evasion (PE) game by proposing different learning algorithms. The intended learning algorithms are used to reduce (1) the computational requirements as much as possible, without affecting the overall performance of the learning algorithm, (2) the learning time, and (3) the capture time and the possibility of collision among the pursuers, and to deal with multi-robot PE game with a single superior evader.The computational complexity is reduced by examining four methods of parameter tuning for the Q-Learning Fuzzy Inference System (QFIS) algorithm to decide which parameters are the best to tune and which parameters have a little impact on the performance. Then, two learning algorithms are proposed to reduce the learning time. The first one uses a two-stage learning technique that combines the PSO-based fuzzy logic control (FLC) algorithm with the QFIS algorithm. The PSO algorithm is used as a global optimizer, whereas the QFIS algorithm is used as a local optimizer. The second one is a modified version of the fuzzy-actor critic learning (FACL) algorithm, which is called fuzzy actor-critic learning Automaton (FACLA) algorithm. It uses the continuous actor-critic learning Automaton (CACLA) algorithm to tune the parameters of the FIS.After that, a decentralized learning technique is proposed to enable a group of two pursuers or more to capture a single inferior evader. It uses the FACLA algorithm together with the Kalman filter technique to reduce the capture time and to reduce the collision possibility among the pursuers. No communication among the pursuers is assumed. Finally, a decentralized learning algorithm is suggested and applied successfully for the case of multi-robot PE game with a single superior evader, in which all the players have similar speeds. A new reward function is suggested and used as a guide for the pursuer to move either to the intercepted point with the evader or to move in parallel with the evader depending on whether the pursuer can capture the evader or not. Simulation results show the feasibility of the proposed learning algorithms.
    Thesis Degree:
    Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Engineering, Electrical and Computer
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Experimental and Numerical Studies of Aerodynamic Performance and Near-Wake Propagation from a Novel Vertical Axis Wind Turbine

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Hilewit, Doma
    Abstract:
    With the world's growing energy demand, the need for offshore wind turbine installations in water depths greater than 50 meters has become a strategic priority for the wind energy market. In deep water sites, Vertical Axis Wind Turbines (VAWTs), particularly with curved rotor blades, may provide more than a 20\% reduction in costs (i.e. installation and maintenance) when compared to standard HAWTs (Horizontal Axis Wind Turbines). However, VAWTs have suffered from lower performance and blade fatigue. One source of lower performance was attributed to the interactions between the downwind blades with vortices that were shed from the upwind blades (so-called "Blade-Vortex Interactions", BVIs) during normal turbine operation. To overcome this performance limitation, a novel VAWT design that decreases the BVI effects is proposed. The key concept behind this design focused on vertically shifting the position of one blade with respect to the second blade, herein named Shifted Troposkien Shape VAWT (STS-VAWT).
    Thesis Degree:
    Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Engineering, Mechanical
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Selecting the Ethical Employee: Measuring Personality Facets to Predict Integrity Behaviour

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Harding, Christopher Donald
    Abstract:
    Selecting employees that act with integrity is paramount for organizations such as the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) where integrity-related behaviour can impact national security. Currently, the Military Police, an occupation within the CAF, utilize a high-cost, time consuming Integrity Assessment Centre (IAC); however, personality assessment tools have the potential to be a less resource intensive way to predict integrity behaviour. The primary goal of this thesis was to examine whether facets of disinhibition, a relatively unexplored maladaptive trait, could add incremental variance above facets of conscientiousness in predicting integrity among Military Police applicants (n = 151) attending an IAC. Hierarchical linear models were conducted using a self-report assessment of integrity, and the IAC results, as outcomes. Disinhibition added incremental variance in the prediction of the IAC integrity scores but not the self-report assessment which indicates that including maladaptive facets of personality has value when predicting behavioural assessments of integrity.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Arts (M.A.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Psychology
    Date Created:
    2019

  • (Re)Making Indigenous Water Worlds: Settler Colonialism, Indigenous Rights, and Hydrosocial Relations in the Settler Nation State

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Stevenson, Shaun
    Abstract:
    This dissertation examines several sites of conflict between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples over water and water rights in Canada, from the 19th century up to current articulations of environmental policy and land rights. Through examination of a selection of public policy, land rights decisions, grassroots activism, and Canadian and Indigenous fiction and non-fiction, I probe relationships to water that have structured and limited the legibility of Indigenous rights in Canada. I track a history of settler colonialism through the lens of water, querying whether water offers a productive site that might challenge the current land-based constraints of colonial legal and policy frameworks that have led to what are often irreconcilable relationships between the settler state and Indigenous peoples.Through Indigenous legal orders, social, cultural, and political expression, as well as strands of materialist and environmentalist Western philosophy that focus on water, ontology, and narrative, I explore the limits and potential for decolonial approaches to water governance that might better support the inherent rights of Indigenous peoples. Using an interdisciplinary methodology, I read public policy and land rights decisions in dialogue with settler and Indigenous literatures and community action in order to understand the often-competing worlding practices that materially, socially, subjectively, and figuratively construct settler and Indigenous approaches to water—what I am calling settler and Indigenous water worlds. Specifically, I analyze four sites of conflict and their various representations where competing laws, philosophies, and social registers of water come up against one another: the 19th century establishment of a liberal order in the Trent Severn Waterway, and its expression in early settler life writing and environmental policy; the mercury pollution of the English-Wabigoon River Systems in Treaty 3 Anishinaabe territory, and the ironic representation of late liberal environmentalism in M.T. Kelly's A Dream Like Mine; the James Bay Hydroelectric conflict, and the political response of the Grand Council of the Crees, as well as the conflict's figurative reimagining in Linda Hogan's Solar Storms; and Haudenosaunee and settler relations in Grand River territory in Southern Ontario, and the impetus to engage these relations through the historic treaty, the Two Row Wampum.
    Thesis Degree:
    Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    English
    Date Created:
    2019

  • A Recommendation System based on Clustering and Classification for Optimal Trajectory Analysis

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Ibrahim, Rami F.
    Abstract:
    Moving objects such as people, animals, and vehicles have generated a huge amount of spatiotemporal data by using location-capture technologies and mobile devices. There is a high demand to analyze this collected data and extract the desired knowledge. In this study, we apply several data mining techniques on a trajectory dataset such as clustering, classification, sequential pattern mining, and time series analysis. Our model can detect the movement patterns of taxi trips in Porto city. We apply the Naïve Bayes classifier to predict the traffic status of each trip. We perform qualitative and quantitative analysis for our clustering method, then we evaluate the accuracy of the Naïve Bayes classifier. Finally, we discuss the implications of our methodology in terms of traffic jams, energy consumption, and air pollution. Our analysis results can be used to build a recommender system which can be beneficial for taxi drivers, passengers, and transportation authorities.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Information Technology (M.I.T.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Digital Media
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Lexical Bundles in Vocabulary-based Discourse Units: A Corpus-based Study of First Year Core Engineering Textbooks

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Chen, Lin
    Abstract:
    The present study examines the use of lexical bundles in first year core engineering textbooks, identifies vocabulary-based discourse units (VBDUs) in the textbooks, and explores the connections between lexical bundles and the VBDUs. A first year core engineering textbook corpus (FCETC) consisting of 995,672 running words was compiled with materials drawn from seven textbooks required in a first-year engineering undergraduate program. A total of 95 lexical bundles were identified in the FCETC. Lexical bundles in the corpus are more often phrasal than clausal. These bundles mainly serve as referential bundles, discourse organizers, and stance bundles. These bundles allow authors to take on the role of experts who deliver foundational knowledge in a professional way and enable the authors to act as facilitators who make the content accessible and involve readers in their learning processes. The comparison of the use of lexical bundles in first year core engineering textbooks, electrical engineering introductory textbooks, university teaching, and university textbooks indicates that disciplinary specificity and genres impact the use of lexical bundles in the four registers. A total of 665 VBDUs were identified in 14 chapters randomly selected from the FCETC. These VBDUs fall into five main categories, which include explaining VBDUs, presenting VBDUs, solving VBDUs, introducing VBDUs, and bridging VBDUs. Single or multiple VBDUs construct four types of macro-processes for knowledge construction, which suggest that the authors focus on the procedures and steps and guide learners to appropriately approach the theories and understand problem-solving operations. This study also shows that the communicative purposes of VBDUs determine the distribution of lexical bundles in these discourse units. The use of lexical bundles differs in the categories and subcategories of VBDUs and helps achieve various communicative purposes of the VBDUs. Furthermore, this study identifies textual colligations of lexical bundles in the engineering textbooks: the authors avoid using stance bundles in introducing VBDUs and rarely use discourse organizers in introducing VBDUs and bridging VBDUs. Findings of this study can provide pedagogical resources to improve learners' reading and writing competencies in the field of engineering.
    Thesis Degree:
    Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Applied Linguistics and Discourse Studies
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Demonstration of a new gamma spectrometer designed for radiometric surveying with an unmanned aircraft system

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Chen, Carolyn
    Abstract:
    The performance of a radiometric unmanned aerial system (UAS) composed of a directional gamma spectrometer, the Advanced Radiation Detector for Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Operations (ARDUO), and a medium-lift helicopter airframe was demonstrated. The ARDUO's properties of the full-width half maximum energy resolution, linearity, gain stability, intrinsic photopeak efficiency, sheet source sensitivity and directional response were characterized in laboratory experiments. Small-scale trials were conducted over a single point source and two point sources of Cs137 at a 27m separation. The single point source strength was measured at 175±39MBq, which is within error of the true source strength of 161MBq. The directional information was shown to improve source locating by differentiating the two point sources. A large-scale `L'-shaped distributed source trial using La140 was completed. The total activity distributed in the area was estimated at 12±1GBq. The directional information was shown to improve constraint of the `L'-shaped distribution area.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Science (M.Sc.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Earth Sciences
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Governing Tomorrow’s Terrorists Today: Counter-Radicalization, the Security Complex and Muslims in Contemporary Governmentality

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Sharifi, Beheshta
    Abstract:
    In grappling with the terrorist threat, states, together with security agencies and governmental bodies rely upon neo-Orientalist constructions of Islam to detect symptoms of the 'known' terrorist that legitimate counter-radicalization policies. Drawing on a governmentality perspective, the thesis unpacks the genealogy of terrorism to elucidate how the terms 'radical' and 'radicalization' have both rendered operative the social construction of risk encircling violence. The thesis argues that the emerging practice of counter-radicalization as a technology of risk has resulted in a permanent state of insecurity. Consequently, in the alleged War on Terror, certain groups are protected and 'Others' subject to scrutiny and stigmatization, particularly Muslims. The thesis analyzes counter-radicalization in the emerging War on Terror, arguing that its pre-emptive logic legitimates the managing of risks based on future threats. It is posited that a shift from a pre-emptive approach to happening or substantively-developed threats might eschew managing future risks.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Arts (M.A.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Legal Studies
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Satirizing Ethics

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Klim, Evan David Alexander
    Abstract:
    I explored three late-night satirical monologues from late-night television following the Orlando Nightclub Shooting on 12 June 2016. I examined the monologues using a social constructionist approach to understand what lessons could be drawn from the event and how a satirist references the nomos when tackling an issue in the world. Satire uses comedic tools to point out follies within society and each host used his or her platform on late-night television to address issues they believed needed to be addressed following the shooting. What I found was that each host aimed to set an agenda in their monologues by emphasizing a) certain facts and information about the event and by b) presenting the audience with a way of viewing what happened and why the issue of gun violence and hate crimes in American needs to be addressed to ensure incidents like these do not happened again.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Arts (M.A.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Sociology
    Date Created:
    2019

  • State Effectiveness and Political Will: The Case of Malaria Control in Uganda and Rwanda

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Kasim, Hussein A.
    Abstract:
    Employing a comparative case study and using state effectiveness as a conceptual framework, this research explores malaria and its control in Uganda and Rwanda. These two neighbouring countries, which share a significant number of socio-economic characteristics, have been implementing the malaria control policies widely recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). Despite their similarities, and the implementation of comparable malaria control policies, the two countries have experienced divergent outcomes: a reduction in malaria-related hospital admission and death rates in Rwanda, and an overall increase in malaria-related hospitalizations and deaths in Uganda during the same 2000-2015 period. During fieldwork in both countries over the span of several months, data was collected using key informant interviews; observation at four sites; and examination of government documents. The key findings suggest that the variation in malaria policy outcomes is due largely to political factors including the role of political leaders and institutions (i.e. the Presidency, the ruling party and parliament), and not to technical factors, as most of the literature suggests. The politicization of malaria and its control in Rwanda (i.e. putting responsibility for malaria control in the hands of political leaders), and the de-politicization of malaria control in Uganda explains the divergence in malaria control outcomes.
    Thesis Degree:
    Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Public Policy
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Investigation of metal toxicity leads to the identification of novel translation associated genes in yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae)

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Moteshareie, Houman
    Abstract:
    Heavy metal and metalloid pollutants in our environment are among the most concerning types of contaminations. Major chronic diseases in humans such as renal and cardiovascular diseases, and neurological decline, are strongly associated with heavy metals and metalloids. Therefore, investigation and understanding the molecular mechanisms of cellular responses and detoxification processes that overcome the toxicity of these compounds in living organisms is very important. To date, several genes are identified to play central roles in cellular detoxification process. The expression of such genes can be influenced at both the transcriptional and/or translational levels by the heavy metals. As a fundamental step in the gene expression pathway, we focused on the regulation of translation initiation under stress imposed by heavy metals and metalloids. Although a wealth of information exists on the process of eukaryotic translation, a comprehensive understanding of regulation of translation initiation under stress conditions is lacking. The growing list of novel factors affecting this process further indicate the existence of other novel players, which are yet to be discovered. In the current study, we sought out to identify novel genes encoding regulatory factors known that affect yeast translation initiation during stress when general translation seems to be shut down. Utilizing systems biology techniques, we investigated the effect of specific gene deletions under heavy metal and metalloid conditions on the general process of translation and internal initiation of translation (an alternative mode of translation mediated by specific RNA structures). We explicitly investigated the role of four of identified potential translation regulating genes based on their activity in heavy metals and metalloids sensitivity. We also performed a high-throughput plasmid-based screening of a library of non-essential gene deletion strains (~4500), using the baker's yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) as our model organism to identify novel genes that are involved in internal translation initiation. To this end, we identified dozens of potential novel genes that may be involved in internal translation initiation. We further investigated the role of five potential factors to support their newly identified activity.
    Thesis Degree:
    Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Biology
    Date Created:
    2019

  • African solutions to African problems? The African Union's sanctions regime regarding unconstitutional changes of government.

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Mouafo Piaplie, Cynthia
    Abstract:
    Unconstitutional changes of government (UCG) remain a constant challenge to democracy, governance and political stability on the African continent. These occurrences in the post-Cold War era have been characterized by the emergence of more subtle ways of accessing and maintaining power. To respond to the threat, the African Union (AU), supported by sub-regional entities, has adopted a zero-tolerance policy against UCGs. Such response includes the establishment of a sanctions regime to ensure a return to democratic and constitutional order in case of UCG in a given member state. Despite significant normative and practical gaps, the AU norm on UCG shows promise and remains a valuable tool to address anti-democratic coups on the continent. Moving forward, it is imperative to focus on improving the current legal and institutional framework against UCG to foster a more comprehensive and coordinated African-led response to these crises on the continent
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Arts (M.A.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    International Affairs
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Preference and performance of Hypena opulenta on Vincetoxicum rossicum foliage from sun versus shade habitats

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Rochette, Alicia Nicole
    Abstract:
    Characteristics of individual plants from the same species can differ significantly between habitats based on abiotic factors such as light intensity and temperature. In turn, these differences in plant quality can affect herbivores that feed on the plant. Here, we examined the effects of habitat on leaf characteristics for the invasive vine Vincetoxicum rossicum, as well as the preference and performance of its biological control agent, Hypena opulenta, on sun versus shade foliage. V. rossicum leaves grown in sunny habitats were tougher, thicker, and had lower water content than shade leaves. H. opulenta larvae consumed greater amounts of shaded foliage than sun foliage and were predominately night-active. H. opulenta larval development did not differ between sun and shade foliage diets; however, females preferred to oviposit on sun foliage. The underlying mechanisms of these results are discussed, as well as their implications for the biological control of Vincetoxicum species.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Science (M.Sc.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Biology
    Date Created:
    2019

  • The roles of suberin biopolymer and associated waxes in protecting plants against abiotic stresses

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    De Silva, Nayana
    Abstract:
    Plants have various hydrophobic barriers that protect against environmental stresses. Suberin is one such extracellular lipid-based barrier that is deposited in various tissues in terrestrial plants. It is a complex aliphatic and aromatic heteropolymer that plays important roles in controlling water and ion movement. The precise mechanisms of suberin in defending against abiotic stresses (e.g. drought, salinity and heavy metals) are currently. In this thesis, I explore some of the specific roles of root suberin and seed coat suberin in the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana in relation to abiotic stress tolerance.Physio-chemical responses and stress tolerance as a result of alterations in suberin were investigated using several suberin-altered mutants of Arabidopsis thaliana. Drought-induced suberin reduced water loss through the root periderm. The amount of water loss in roots was inversely correlated to the amount of total suberin. Suberin lamellae structure was important in reducing water loss under drought stress. Salt stress responses in suberin-altered mutants indicate suberin composition or lamellae structure are essential in barrier function of root suberin against uncontrolled Na uptake into the plant.Mutants of Arabidopsis defective in various seed coat polymeric substances (suberin, cutin, mucilage, or proanthocyanidins) were tested for changes in germination and viability after stratification and imbibition in a range of mining environment-relevant chromium Cr(III) concentrations. Seeds reduced in total seed coat suberin were strongly affected by increasing Cr3+ concentrations, affecting both germination and embryo viability. This provides evidence for the effective barrier function of seed coat suberin on the imposition of impermeability to Cr3+. Although proanthocyanidin mutants displayed reduced germination in the presence of chromium, their embryo viability was only partially affected by higher levels of Cr3+. Overall, these results reveal the risks associated with Cr3+ toxicity on the existence of plants with reduced seed coat suberin content in environments contaminated with high levels of chromium.The findings presented in this thesis helps to clarify how suberin content, composition, and lamellae structure relate to tolerance against drought, salinity, and chromium (Cr3+) toxicity. Further, these findings shed light on future directions in manipulating suberin genes for the development of stress-tolerant high-value crops.
    Thesis Degree:
    Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Biology
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Towards an Ethical Machine: One test at a time

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Highstead, Thomas Steven
    Abstract:
    Abstract Machines acting as artificial agents are increasingly operating in environments populated by human beings, and are interacting directly with people. In order for artificial agents to be accepted by society, they must act in a manner that reflects society's norms. Since a society's norms are grounded in ethical rules of behaviour, artificial agents will also need to follow ethical norms of the society in which they operate, if they are to be accepted by human agents. In addition to an artificial agent's goals, tasks and actions for which it is designed such as operating as a care giver or an autonomous vehicle, an artificial agent needs to also incorporate ethical considerations when choosing which task to perform. To achieve this, an ethical component needs to be added to the artificial agent's programming. I present one such approach to achieve this based on Kent Beck's Test-Driven Development methodology
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Cognitive Science (M.Cog.Sc.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Cognitive Science
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Colonising Space and Producing Territory: John and Elizabeth Simcoe and Water, Power, and Empire in Upper Canada, 1791-1796

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Murphy, Romalie
    Abstract:
    This dissertation examines how John Graves Simcoe, the first Lieutenant Governor of Upper Canada, and his wife, Elizabeth, manifested imperial expressions of power, sovereignty, security, and population within the new colony in the 1790s. There are also three chapters that focus on how territorial and route surveying played a critical role for both Simcoes, serving as a scientific foundation for reframing Upper Canada as a territory and a population. It does so by offering a re-examination of both their well-known private and public correspondence written in this decade, and also some select paintings and maps through which their ideas of governance and political and cultural visions were expressed. The dissertation's reading and contextualisation of this archive is informed by Michel Foucault's lectures on governmentality, critical cartographic histories, and imperial and colonial historiographies, all of which are brought into conversation with historical studies of Upper Canada.There are two central arguments in this dissertation. First, it demonstrates the ways that the actions of both Simcoes were imperial in nature and were not directed towards the establishment of an independent Province. Towards this end, it reconsiders Elizabeth's collection of writings as evidence of the ways that she embodied and administered imperial interpretations of power and knowledge as a faithful observer and cataloguer of the colony through scientific methods including cartography. Second, this dissertations argues that the Simcoes' work in and about Upper Canada were expressions of an early modern imperial governmentality that predated and thus operated somewhat differently from the historiographically well-known liberal governmentality that emerged in Canada in the early-to-middle decades of the nineteenth century.
    Thesis Degree:
    Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    History
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Design of a Linear LC Digitally Controlled Oscillator Using Topographical Field Maps

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Abdullah, Shakeeb
    Abstract:
    The purpose of this thesis was to present a novel perspective on how to design extremely linear digitally controlled oscillators. This was achieved by introducing a new concept known as linearity field maps. The linearity response of the measured DCO had an R^2 value of 0.996. The measured frequency response of the DCO was from 6.66 GHz to 5.45 GHz. The DCO had fine tuning steps of 20.5 kHz resolution and a tuning range of ∼ 20%. The measured FoM was between -175 dBc/Hz and -181 dB/Hz (throughout the entire frequency span of the DCO and for various power levels). The thesis experiment was a success in showing how to design a linear DCO, the DCO in the thesis worked even though the frequency was shifted from simulated results, the point of the thesis was made, and the theorem and perspective introduced in this thesis held true.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Applied Science (M.App.Sc.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Engineering, Electrical and Computer
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Birth order as a source of diversification in spring phenology and its potential effects on performance in greater duckweed, Spirodela polyrhiza

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Morris, Riley Stewart
    Abstract:
    The timing of both winter freeze-up and spring thaws are unpredictable and under these variable environments, clonal populations of Spirodela polyrhiza (greater duckweed) provide an excellent case study of phenotypic diversification as a risk aversion strategy. Previous research on this species has demonstrated that potential diversification bet hedging in the phenology of the production of turions is generated by birth order within clones. The timing of turion reactivation the following spring may also have profound fitness consequences due to the risk of the thaw and re-freezing of the water's surface. I therefore hypothesize that variance in turion reactivation phenology within clones is influenced by birth order of turions. This was tested through a laboratory study that determined the source of observed phenological variability, and an outdoor mesocosm study that further examined fitness consequences of variance in the timing of turion reactivation under different temperature treatments.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Science (M.Sc.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Biology
    Date Created:
    2019

  • A comparative pilot scale study analyzing the performance of biological versus conventional drinking water filtration with the application of various backwash strategies for headloss and ripening control

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Piche, Ashley Elaine Marie
    Abstract:
    A pilot scale comparison study between conventional and biological dual media anthracite/sand filters was conducted to assess their performance and address industry concerns with biofiltration. The filters were subjected to various backwash and temperature conditions, including the addition of air scour and extended terminal subfluidization wash (ETSW) at 15-25°C and 0-5°C. The biofilters had significantly lower DBP formations (p<0.05) than the conventional filters under all conditions, by 33-46%. The biofilters exhibited greater headloss development than the conventional filters with a water only backwash, but it was found to be minimized by up to 19% when applying air scour and ETSW under warm water conditions. The conventional filters proved to be more vulnerable in terms of particle release during ripening, regardless of backwash strategy. A double stage ETSW step was also explored and found to improve ripening particle counts and turbidity in both filter types, even further than a single stage ETSW, while simultaneously providing headloss control.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Applied Science (M.App.Sc.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Engineering, Environmental
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Evaluation of a novel media Sucrose Activated Carbon for removal of methylene blue, nitrate and phosphate from solution and comparison with Granular Activated Carbon

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Suresh, Saumya
    Abstract:
    The adsorptive capacity of a novel green media Sucrose Activated Carbon (SAC) was compared with the more traditional Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) used for water treatment which has certain disadvantages including high price, is coal based and has adverse affects on performance by variations in pH, temperature and flow rate. SAC is obtained from the hydrothermal carbonization of sucrose followed by pyrolysis at 900ºC. Preliminary tests indicate Iodine number for SAC is 1150 mg/g which is comparable to GAC in range of 500-1200 mg/g. Scanning electron microscopic (SEM) images of SAC show spherical particles with average particle size in the range of 2-9 µm with smooth external surface. SAC also shows good adsorptive capacity for methylene blue, nitrate, and phosphate with adsorption capacities, 196.1 mg/g, 1.07 (mg/g(L/mg)^(1/n) and 1.71 mg/g, respectively. Thus, based on the initial studies, this media has potential to be a sustainable substitute for GAC.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Applied Science (M.App.Sc.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Engineering, Environmental
    Date Created:
    2019

  • The effect of formation pathway on allopolyploids between Brassica carinata, Brassica napus, Brassica juncea and Sinapis arvensis

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Kesidis, Cleoniki Elizabeth
    Abstract:
    Polyploidization has played a key role in the evolution of plant lineages. The effect of formation pathway on neopolyploid morphology and fertility, however, is unknown. This thesis compares one-step and two-step allopolyploids with Brassica carinata, Brassica juncea or Brassica napus as the maternal parent and Sinapis arvensis as the paternal parent. One-step allopolyploids formed twice as frequently, though once a homoploid hybrid formed two-step allopolyploids were ten times as frequent as one-step allopolyploids. The two-step allopolyploids were more fertile and more reproductively isolated from parental species. The two types of allopolyploids differed morphologically, but in both types, polyploidy had a large initial effect on morphology while the effect of hybridity endured. Both types of allopolyploids, but especially the one-step allopolyploids, showed an unexpectedly high rate of DNA downsizing. In conclusion, allopolyploids formed through different formation pathways differ significantly in fertility, morphology, and genome stability.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Science (M.Sc.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Biology
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Gate-Oxide-Short Defect Analysis and Fault Modeling Based on FinFET's 3D Structure

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Dibaj, Roya
    Abstract:
    FinFET is one of the most promising candidates in replacing planar MOSFET beyond the 22nm technology node due to further improvements in the transistor performance. However, the complexity of FinFET manufacturing process due to its three-dimensional structure and reduced critical dimensions have caused new challenges in achieving reliable device testing. With the emergence of new types of defects and dominance of others, accurate modeling of the defects and generation of reliable fault models are essential to create realistic set of test vectors to detect the defects.Automatic test pattern generation (ATPG) algorithms use traditional fault models that primarily capture the behavior of the circuit-under-test by introducing defects at the primary inputs and outputs. It has been found that many defects escape testing when they occur within the circuit structure. Recently, Cell-Aware Test (CAT) has been proposed to detect cell-internal defects by performing extensive analog simulations on post-layout standard circuit structures to generate the fault models. Although CAT methodology has significantly improved the defect coverage of the generated test patterns in MOSFET-based circuits, the defect models utilized are obtained based on the defects injected at the layout level and primarily represented by fixed lumped passive components that cannot reflect the true defect nature in the complex 3D structure of FinFET. Gate-Oxide-Short (GOS) is one of the dominant defects, which has significant impact on circuit reliability. It is the most complex to analyze and difficult to accurately model true behavior of the defective device.This thesis presents a novel methodology for GOS defect injection and fault modeling in FinFETs by introducing the defect to a 3D structure of the device for a specific process technology. The behavior of the defective device is captured through simulations in Sentaurus TCAD environment that lead to the generation of more accurate defect models. These defect models are used in circuit-level simulations to generate appropriate fault models for the circuit structures. These cell-aware models could be integrated in CAT environment to generate more realistic test patterns. This research will not only be used in test pattern generation, but it will aid in cell-aware diagnosis and yield analysis.
    Thesis Degree:
    Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Engineering, Electrical
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Adaptive Extended Kalman Filtering Strategies for Autonomous Relative Navigation of Formation Flying Spacecraft

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Fraser, Cory Tyler
    Abstract:
    To enhance the capabilities of onboard autonomous guidance, navigation and control systems, this thesis presents the development of two adaptive extended Kalman filter navigation algorithms for spacecraft formation flying. The proposed adaptive filters are capable of updating the internal noise characteristics of the Kalman filter in real time, and are viable in all orbit scenarios, including highly elliptical orbits in the presence of perturbations. The first Kalman filter approach uses maximum likelihood estimation techniques to derive analytical adaptations laws for the filter, and the second approach uses an embedded fuzzy logic system based on a covariance-matching analysis of the filter residuals. Numerical simulations of three spacecraft formations are used to demonstrate that the proposed adaptive navigation algorithms are appreciably more robust to filter initialization errors, dynamics modelling deficiencies, and measurement noise than the standard extended Kalman filter.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Applied Science (M.App.Sc.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Engineering, Aerospace
    Date Created:
    2019

  • The influence of CMAQ model resolution on predicted air quality and associated health impacts

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Fillingham, Melanie Anne
    Abstract:
    Air quality models paired with epidemiological data are often used to estimate health impacts from pollution exposure. The accuracy of these predictions depends on the horizontal resolution. This thesis aims to quantify the impact of horizontal resolution by simulating health impacts due to O3, NO2, and PM2.5 exposure using various model and input resolutions. Adjoint sensitivity analysis was used to predict health impacts, producing results with respect to emissions sources. Furthermore, health impacts were estimated through concentration-exposure relationships in which individual input resolutions were altered. Coarse modeled health impacts were underestimated maxima in urban areas and overestimated in rural areas near urban cores. The resolution of population had the largest impact on predicted health impact for all species while meteorology and emissions impacted the species to different extents. The influence of specific emission sources can be more adequately determined at fine resolution, benefiting air quality control.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Applied Science (M.App.Sc.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Engineering, Environmental
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Predictive Validity of the Dynamic Risk Assessment for Offender Re-Entry Among Intimate Partner Violence Offenders

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Perley-Robertson, Bronwen
    Abstract:
    Intimate partner violence (IPV) is among the most common acts of violence against women worldwide, making it a major global threat to women's health and safety. The assessment and management of IPV offenders are therefore vital tasks in criminal justice systems. The current study examined whether the DRAOR, a case management tool, predicted repeat partner abuse among 112 male IPV offenders in Iowa, U.S. While the DRAOR did not predict IPV recidivism, it appears to be useful for informing case management decisions among partner-violent men. Risk factors that emerged as important treatment targets were poor attachment with others, substance abuse, anger/hostility, opportunity/access to victims, problematic interpersonal relationships, and overall acute risk. Further research is needed to improve the utility of the DRAOR for predicting IPV recidivism, but this study tentatively supports the use of the DRAOR for supervising IPV offenders until an IPV-specific case management tool is developed.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Arts (M.A.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Psychology
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Stadium City: A Modern Re-Imagination and the Sports Complex

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Kim, Erick Hyun Yong
    Abstract:
    Sport can unify cities and people in unique ways. From pick-up games in neighbourhoods and parks, to various leagues, public sporting events can build and strengthen the collective civic pride and solidarity of a city. Cities, invest millions of dollars in building stadiums for major sporting events such as the Olympics etc. While these stadiums are often lively during sporting events and sit abandoned when sporting seasons are over. Rarely, open to the public, these stadiums stay empty and their potential use is never fully realised. This thesis re-imagines these venues as a multi-sport facility and introduces an initial planning strategy that is inviting to the inhabitants of the city. Located in Toronto, this stadium acts as a node within a multifunctional "world of sport" which is open to the public and promotes healthy activities and civic belonging. The thesis concentrates on the design of a single, multi-purpose sports building.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Architecture (M.Arch.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Architecture
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Fibroblast Growth Factor 2 (FGF2) is Necessary for the Antidepressant Effects of Fluoxetine in Chronically Stressed Mice

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Shail, Pragya Manjusha
    Abstract:
    Previous research has shown that fibroblast growth factor 2 protein (FGF2) can act as an anxiolytic and anti-depressive agent in rodents. Hippocampal FGF2 are decreased in post-mortem brains of individuals with mood disorders. No changes in FGF2 noted in the post-mortem brains of individuals with mood disorders that were successfully treated with anti-depressant medication. Mutations in FGF2 gene in humans have predicted non-responsiveness to the therapeutic effects of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). These findings suggest FGF2 may be required for the therapeutic effects of antidepressants. To test this, we employed a rodent model of depressive behaviour, chronic variable stress (CVS) with antidepressant treatment (fluoxetine) in wild-type and FGF2 knockout mice and examined depressive and anxiety behaviors. We hypothesized that fluoxetine will reverse the effects of CVS on these behaviours in wild-type mice, but not in FGF2KO, suggesting that FGF2 gene is necessary for the therapeutic effects of fluoxetine.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Science (M.Sc.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Neuroscience
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Culinary Topology: Rethinking the Parking Lot Threshold at the Montreal Hospital

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Tang, Oliver
    Abstract:
    The parking lot is the arrival area for many people entering the hospital. This space has an opportunity to become something more than a featureless utilitarian space for cars, it could offer an integrated experience of 'threshold'. This thesis uses culinary theory as an architectural tool to redefine the parking lot as 'threshold'. Cuisine will offer a metaphorical design language that will act as interlocutor in the design process of rethinking the arrival space between car and hospital.Cooking is an appropriate guide for this process - it is an act which transforms raw materials through acts of combinations, manipulations and deformations toward a delightful end. Three cooking elements: blanching, sauce and soufflé are used to transform the physical elements of the underground entry threshold at the hospital with an aim to make the experience more appropriate as a gateway between sickness and health.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Architecture (M.Arch.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Architecture
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Irish Citizens and the Media During the Euro Crisis: An Inter-Arena Approach to Studying the Politicization of the EU

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Gora, Anna
    Abstract:
    When the euro crisis hit Europe, so did recurring claims of an 'unprecedented' politicization of European integration charcterized by increased attention to the EU in the media and claims of rising euroscepticism among EU citizens. These are characteristic of the media-based analyses that dominate politicization research. This dissertation disputes the generalizability of these claims from the media to lay citizens and to other political arenas. It argues than an approach that differentiates between the various dimensions of politicization (i.e. salience, scope and contestation) and between the various arenas on which it plays out (i.e. institutional, intermediary and citizen) is necessary for an accurate understanding of the character and development of politicization. Through a mixed-methods quantitative-qualitative analysis that applies equivalent indicators longitudinally over parallel time periods, it investigates how the politicization of the EU compares between media debates and citizen discourse. It then maps how it evolved comparatively between them over the duration of the crisis.Politicization in the Irish news media, observed through media content analysis of the Irish Times and the Irish Independent in chapter 4, is then compared with that among Irish citizens, observed through focus group discussions and Eurobarometer surveys in chapter 5. This dissertation finds that contrary to claims of an 'unprecedented' degree of politicization, politicization of the EU in the Irish news media during the crisis can be characterized as a moderately salient, deep, moderately euro-critical polarization that is becoming somewhat wider in scope over time with no consistent trend in either the salience or contestation of EU politics. In contrast, in the citizen arena it was characterized as a week to moderately salient, wide, moderately polarized politicization that is slowly progressing in a wider but not deeper euro-critical direction. It finds that even where the intensity of politicization does not change over time, there can still be significant changes to the character of politicization in any one or more of its three dimensions
    Thesis Degree:
    Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Political Science
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Exhausted with Emissions: Exploring the Link Between Anthropogenic Emissions and Urban Pollution on Public Health

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Genereux, Angele Julie Jessie
    Abstract:
    In the first study, we investigate how reducing transportation emissions and other anthropogenic emissions of NOx affects local and national public health in two heavily populated and polluted areas: Los Angeles, CA and New York City, NY. We estimate the Tipping Point (TP) as well as the Break-Even Point (BEP) and show that compounding benefits of NOx control will compensate disbenefits occurred with abatement. In addition, we examine the impact of nationalized vs. localized emission control policies. Next, we focus on the transportation sector and examine the distribution in exhaust emissions on an age-segregated basis for both Canada and the United States. Through the combination of these emission factors with the per-ton public health impacts of NOx and PM from a previous study, we estimate the benefits of (1) reducing the vehicle-miles travelled in terms of $/mile, and (2) removing one average vehicle from the road in terms of $/vehicle-year.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Applied Science (M.App.Sc.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Engineering, Environmental
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Scalable Domain Decomposition Algorithms for Uncertainty Quantification in High Performance Computing

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Desai, Ajit
    Abstract:
    Uncertainty quantification of practical engineering applications using the intrusive spectral stochastic finite element methods (SSFEM) may involve solving a system of linear equations in the order of billions of unknowns. Therefore, in this thesis the intrusive polynomial chaos expansion (PCE) based two-level domain decomposition (DD) algorithms for stochastic partial differential equations (PDEs) are extended to handle high resolution numerical models using an in-house scalable parallel solvers toolkit. First, the attention is given to facilitate the numerical simulation of the stochastic PDEs with a large number of random variables to address the so-called curse of dimensionality issue. Second, for three-dimensional coupled stochastic PDE systems such as equations of linear elasticity, the extended wirebasket-based coarse grid is developed to improve the performance and overcome the scalability issues of the DD based iterative solvers with a vertex-based coarse grid. Third, the developed DD solvers for the SSFEM are coupled with FEniCS deterministic finite element assembly routines in order to reduce the coding required for the implementation and generalize the application of these solvers to a variety of PDEs using FEniCS. Fourth, the intrusive SSFEM with scalable DD solver is shown to outperform the non-intrusive SSFEM with the sparse grid quadrature for a stochastic PDE with the non-Gaussian random variables. This highlights the advantages of intrusive approach and demonstrates the necessity of the scalable parallel solvers for uncertainty quantification. This thesis also elaborates on the HPC implementational aspects of the DD solvers for SSFEM. Three-level nested sparse iterative solvers, which employ an efficient DD based preconditioner at each level, are used to simulate two and three-dimensional scalar and vector-valued stochastic PDEs. The random system parameters and the solution process are modeled as a non-Gaussian stochastic process characterized by using up to 25 random variables with a third-order expansion resulting in 3276 PCE terms. Numerical and parallel scalabilities of these algorithms are investigated employing large-scale high-performance computing clusters with MPI, PETSc and FEniCS libraries. For all these scalability measurements, we report the results for different numbers of random variables and different orders of PCE to measure the sensitivity of the algorithms to the stochastic parameter.
    Thesis Degree:
    Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Engineering, Civil
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Sweet Success? Interrogating Nutritionism in Biofortified Sweet Potato Promotion in Mwasonga, Tanzania

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Rao, Sheila
    Abstract:
    This dissertation is an ethnographic study of the promotion of biofortification, and specifically biofortified sweet potato (OFSP) as a solution to malnutrition in the Mwanza region of Tanzania, a major sweet potato producing area in the country.Through a feminist lens, I examine sweet potato, commonly considered a 'women's crop' in Tanzania, and the campaign to promote its use as entry-points to analyze the intersection between women's dynamic engagement in food-related labour and the gendered, economic and social conditions in which women sweet potato farmers' livelihoods are situated. Funded by private foundations and international agricultural research centres, biofortified sweet potato campaigns targeted thousands of women farmers in several Sub-Saharan African countries in an effort to address malnutrition by increasing the nutrient content of staple, subsistence crops such as sweet potato. My findings show that OFSP promotion reinforced existing normative gendered food production roles as well as scientific, technical interpretations of nutrition, while disregarding how socio-economic and environmental conditions mediate everyday and seasonal dietary practices. A close examination of the research activities and marketing of biofortified sweet potato reveal the inherent gendered and social inequalities embedded in current strategies to address nutrition in agricultural development programs in Tanzania. My research suggests that women's associated labour and varying perceptions of nutrition were under-acknowledged in such campaigns. Analysis of discursive and material networks embedded in OFSP campaigns revealed both the intended and unintended long-term and seasonal, social, economic, health and environmental implications of these campaigns and their oversights on sweet potato producers in Mwasonga village since 2006. As a result, OFSP benefits to the female sweet potato producers in my study remained short-term, uncertain, and dependent on external financing and international partnerships, and on individual farmers' access to economic, social and environmental assets.
    Thesis Degree:
    Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Anthropology
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Canada - United States Safe Third Country Agreement in the Trump Era

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Mazreku, Flutura
    Abstract:
    The purpose of this thesis is to examine the Canada-United States Safe Third Country Agreement. In the wake of Donald Trump's election as US president, the executive orders he has issued on matters of immigration, and various policies implemented by the administration, it is worth questioning the STCA. The STCA is an agreement between Canada and the United States which requires refugee claimants to request refugee protection in the first safe country in which they arrive in, unless they qualify for an exception to the agreement. The STCA violates both international and domestic law. Specifically, it violates the 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees and the 1967 Protocol Relating to the Status of Refugees. Domestically, it is in violation of the Canadian Charter or Rights and Freedoms. This thesis concludes that the cornerstone of the Convention, the principle of non-refoulement, has achieved the status of jus cogens.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Arts (M.A.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Legal Studies
    Date Created:
    2019

  • The genetic structure of Celtis tenuifolia and comparisons to the related species C. occidentalis, and C. laevigata: Implications for the conservation management of threatened populations in Southern Ontario

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Hayes, Andrew Douglas
    Abstract:
    Celtis tenuifolia is a threatened tree in southern Ontario. Although it is common further south, only six disjunct sites in Ontario exist, and these populations are susceptible to extinction due to habitat loss. It is difficult for conservation managers to distinguish C. tenuifolia from related Celtis species morphologically, and taxonomists have questioned species limits in this group. Using microsatellite markers and flow cytometry, we assessed the relationship between genetic diversity, ploidy, and morphology in this genus. We have determined that C. tenuifolia is an apomictic allotriploid, and flow cytometry provides a reliable tool for distinguishing it from the sexual diploids C. occidentalis and C. laevigata. Furthermore, the same C. tenuifolia genotypes occur in a variety of habitats, demonstrating remarkable phenotypic plasticity. The results of this assessment will direct management of C. tenuifolia, providing reliable identification tools, and resolving concerns around hybridization and the risks of inbreeding depression.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Science (M.Sc.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Biology
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Relationship of Morphological Knowledge to Spelling Silent Letter Endings in French

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Mussar, Ruth Elizabeth Anne
    Abstract:
    This cross-sectional study of archival data from Francophone elementary students assessed morphological knowledge as a construct encompassing both implicit and explicit morphological skills, and the use of this construct in predicting children's morphogramme spelling. 123 children in grades 1 to 3 were assessed on four measures of morphological knowledge, which varied in terms of implicit and explicit morphological manipulations; morphogramme spelling; and their use of silent letter endings (SLEs) in novel situations. First graders struggled to complete explicit morphological tasks, while third graders reached ceiling level on implicit tasks, thus highlighting the importance of choosing appropriate measures for a target population. Factor analysis of the morphological measures confirmed a one factor solution for morphological knowledge. However, analyses failed to replicate prior research stating that morphological knowledge predicts morphogramme spelling. Finally, children rarely used SLEs; however, when they did, they displayed sensitivity to the appropriate phonological context for the letter used.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Arts (M.A.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Psychology
    Date Created:
    2019

  • From Fish Movement to Knowledge Movement: Understanding and Improving Science Transfer Related to Acoustic Telemetry in the Laurentian Great Lakes

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Delle Palme, Caleigh
    Abstract:
    Biotelemetry has generated new knowledge with the potential to inform fisheries management. Yet, new information must be understood, and viewed as relevant by fisheries managers for it to be used in decision-making. I explore the Great Lakes fisheries network by conducting 50 interviews with fisheries professionals to identify knowledge transfer barriers, their awareness of the strengths and limitations of biotelemetry data, as well as their opinion on the role biotelemetry plays regarding fisheries management. Mixed opinions emerged regarding the peer-review process, data-sharing and integration of biotelemetry findings into management. There was uncertainty regarding the use of biotelemetry to reliably study ecosystems, its cost-effectiveness and biotelemetry's future role in assessments for the management of the fisheries. The largest barrier of integration of biotelemetry knowledge into management was characteristics of actors. I will discuss recommendations for telemetry scientists to help them advance the understanding and incorporation of biotelemetry science into decision-making.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Science (M.Sc.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Biology
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Detecting Geomagnetically Induced Currents in Electric Power Transmission Lines

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Lackey, Andrew
    Abstract:
    Modern electric power transmission systems are becoming increasingly complex due to smart grid development and the need for climate change adaptation, rendering transmission systems more vulnerable to impacts via GIC. A current challenge in the field of GIC detection and measurement is the focus on simulation tools and techniques not advancing towards real-world implementation due to the complexities of GIC events. This thesis addresses this engineering challenge through design and implementation of a GIC test bench and demonstration of a new approach for simple GIC detection and measurement. Furthermore, the work establishes capabilities of a robust GIC measurement platform designed and implemented to enable straightforward use and integration with modern grid infrastructure. This thesis has resulted in systems that bridge the gaps between simulation tools and real-world deployments of GIC detection and measurement systems, providing a solid foundation for further research and development.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Applied Science (M.App.Sc.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Engineering, Electrical and Computer
    Date Created:
    2019

  • "From the Orange Revolution to Euromaidan? Political Culture of Ukrainian Society from 2004 to 2014"

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Thomson, Viktoriya
    Abstract:
    The main cause of Euromaidan and the subsequent social revolution that took place in Ukraine in 2013-2014 has been the subject of vigorous debate and inquiry. Why was the former peaceful and short-lived, while the latter was violent and enduring? More importantly, what motivated Ukrainian citizens to protest?This dissertation posits that although the Orange revolution does not fall within the definition of a classical social revolution, it started a process of transformation of the political culture of Ukraine. Utilizing the classical approaches to the study of the political culture combined with the literature on political identities in the post-communist countries, this thesis submits that some components of the political culture of Ukrainians transformed during the studied period. The biggest changes occurred regarding citizens' orientations towards others and towards oneself in the political process. Although a low level of confidence in the political institutions and the political regime as the whole, Ukrainians increased their support for such democratic values as protection of human rights, fair and consistent enforcement of the law as well as intolerance towards the presence of corruption. Younger and more educated Ukrainians increased their trust and tolerance towards "others"- people that you meet for the first time, people of another nationality and religion.The most important findings were about political competence and political actions. The presence of free media during the initial years after the Orange revolution combined with an increase in alternative forms of social interaction and activity such as online discussion groups and blogging, allowed citizens to freely communicate and express their opinions without fear of being punished. This and an increase in interpersonal trust, created favorable conditions for a new form of political socialization, interaction, and collaboration. It also was correlated with an increased in alternative forms of political actions, including political protests.However, other aspects of political culture have not changed - low confidence in the main political institutions; low membership in political and non political organizations, low political efficacy. Hence, Ukrainians participation in alternative political activities increased in the absence of confidence in traditional forms of political activities such as elections.
    Thesis Degree:
    Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Political Science
    Date Created:
    2019

  • A Dynamic Solution to Spatial Misalignment in Strongly Coupled Magnetic Resonance Wireless Power Transfer Systems

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Mulles, Paulyn Joy Servando
    Abstract:
    Spatial misalignment is the leading cause of power transfer efficiency loss in a wireless power system; the misalignment causes the magnetic coupling of the system to change, resulting in a non-optimal load impedance. This research work presents the design and evaluation of an adaptive, near-field transmitter that can maintain the system efficiency when spatial misalignment occurs. The design consists of a power amplifier, a directional coupler, a tuneable impedance matching network, a gain-phase detector, and a microcontroller. An algorithm was created to determine the varying load impedance; another modified the configuration of the tuneable matching network for one that can match to the new load impedance. The developed class EF2 power amplifier delivered 7.5 W of power to the load, with a drain efficiency of 82.4%, at 13.56 MHz. The adaptive transmitter prototype maintained an average of 55% system efficiency for a separation distance of 1.5 cm to 3 cm.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Applied Science (M.App.Sc.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Engineering, Electrical and Computer
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Functioning of reclaimed oil sands ecosystems and the implications for reclamation certification

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Strilesky, Stacey Lynne
    Abstract:
    Water use indicators of evapotranspiration, water use efficiency, and gross ecosystem productivity were derived using eddy covariance (EC) measurements of surface-atmosphere exchanges of water, carbon, and energy. They were examined with the goal of identifying potential indicators for assessment and certification of reclaimed landscapes in the Athabasca Oil Sands Region (AOSR). The research outcomes suggest that these indicators provide meaningful assessments of reclaimed AOSR upland and wetland landscapes, thus improving our understanding of ecosystem function, reclamation practices, and certification guidelines. An initial study using a 12-year EC data record for a single reclaimed upland forest dominated by aspen suggested that following approximately 10 years of post-construction variability, the water use characteristics of the site were within the range of variability of natural upland forests in the region. The second study of this thesis expanded the scope of the research to include seven additional EC data records with four AOSR reclaimed sites and four western boreal reference sites. By ~ 20 years of age, the post-disturbance sites' water use indicators were within the range of natural variability. The initial post-disturbance water use variability was related to disturbance type, vegetation cover, moisture, and temperature. The final study examined annual growing season EC-derived water use indicators for 21 upland reference and reclaimed sites, which provided > 100 site years for assessing the potential of these data sets to contribute to assessment and certification in additional ways beyond what can be provided by other ecosystem assessment techniques such as biometrics (including soil and vegetation surveys) and remote sensing. The integrated assessments of ecosystem functioning derived from EC measurements of water and carbon fluxes may be used to situate reclaimed landscapes in relation to the range of variability and along development trajectories for upland boreal sites.
    Thesis Degree:
    Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Geography
    Date Created:
    2019

  • A Biphasic Multiscale Investigation of the Biomechanical Microenvironment of Articular Cartilage

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Khan, Abdul Rehman
    Abstract:
    Osteoarthritis (OA) is a debilitating joint disease that involves the degeneration of articular cartilage. Although much research has been conducted at the macroscale level, the microscale level is poorly understood. This thesis investigated the micromechanical environment of cartilage cells that is thought to regulate cell metabolic activity.The cell microenvironment was studied at six distinct locations using a multiscale post-processing approach. Microscale sub-models were developed with biphasic poroviscoelastic (BPVE) fibril-reinforced materials and tested under axial quasi-static indentation and physiological cyclic sliding.Elevated principal and shear strains, and decreased fluid pressurization were found with simulated cartilage degeneration. Maximum intracellular compressive (19%) and shear strain (15%) occurred in the superficial zone of OA chondrocytes under sliding loads. Different loading modes resulted in different strains and fluid pressures between cartilage grades that may affect cell metabolism, suggesting that use of non-physiological loads in studies of cartilage could result in erroneous conclusions.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Applied Science (M.App.Sc.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Engineering, Mechanical
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Traceability Modeling for the Engineering of Heterogeneous Systems

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Mustafa, Nasser Mousa Faleh
    Abstract:
    Capturing traceability information among artifacts helps ensure product quality and assists tracking functional and non-functional requirements, and performing system validation and impact analysis. Although literature provides many techniques for modeling traceability, existing solutions are either tailored to specific domains or not complete enough (e.g., lack support to specify traceability link semantics). This research examines the current traceability solutions and identifies the drawbacks that hinder capturing some traceability information of heterogeneous artifacts. In this context, heterogeneous artifacts refer to artifacts that come from widely different modeling notations (e.g., UML, Simulink, natural language text, source code). In this thesis, our contribution comprises a traceability framework that can accommodate the traceability of system engineering artifacts which come from different domains of expertise. The framework includes the followings: First, a set of requirements for a traceability model that are necessary to build a generic traceability model. Second, a generic traceability model that is not domain specific and which, therefore, provides a solution for modeling traceability links among heterogeneous models, that is, models for which traceability links need to be established between artifacts in widely different modeling languages (e.g., UML, block diagrams, informal documents). We argue that the proposed requirements are sufficient to build a traceability model oblivious of the heterogeneity of the models whose artifacts need to be traced. We also argue that our traceability model is extensible in the sense that it can adapt to new modeling languages, new ways of characterizing traceability information for instance, without requiring changes to the model itself; Third, a trace links taxonomy that encompasses semantically well-defined trace links that can be utilized along with the traceability model. The design of our framework is validated through a set of validation methods. Also, it is supported by our findings from a survey and a systematic literature review.
    Thesis Degree:
    Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Engineering, Electrical and Computer
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Stochastic Geometry-Based Tools for Spatial Modeling and Planning of Future Cellular Networks: Opportunistic Cell Switch-off and Strategic Deployment of Flying Base Stations

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Lagum, Faraj
    Abstract:
    To meet the ever-increasing traffic demand in modern cellular networks, deploying more BSs has imposed is a vital solution. Cellular network (re-)planning is crucial to mitigate the interference and improve the network performance whenever more base stations (BSs) are deployed or some BSs are removed. Realistic spatial modelling for the locations of BSs and accurate quantification for their spatial relationship are prerequisites for effective network planning.In the first part of this thesis, we aim to describe the spatial structure of the BSs using two scalar measures: the density of the BSs and the amount of regularity. We investigate the use of three scalar metrics to measure the spatial relationships among the BSs in cellular networks. We propose a geometry-based scalar metric (the coefficient of variation (CoV) of the length of the corresponding edges of Delaunay triangulation) to quantify the spatial regularity of the repulsive wireless networks. This work develops new approaches for i) mapping between the internal parameters of different point processes commonly used to generate the BS locations, ii) approximating the performance of a repulsive network based on its amount of regularity, and iii) fitting point processes to the spatial deployment of BSs.In the second part, we develop a novel stochastic geometry-based cellular network planning technique that relies on the spatial structure of the network to determine the best deployment or removal locations of the BSs. First, we apply this technique for cell deactivation during the low demand periods. More specifically, cells are switched off so that the remaining active cells are as far away as possible from each other, which maximizes the spatial regularity of the network. The results show significant energy saving and network performance enhancement. Second, we exploit this approach for the strategic densification with UAV-BSs in cellular networks: The deployment of multiple UAV-BSs in the presence of a terrestrial network where the UAV-BSs provide on-demand capacity to the end users. This study provides supply-side estimation for how many UAV-BSs are needed to support a terrestrial network so as to achieve a particular quality-of-service and also demonstrate where these UAV-BSs should hover.
    Thesis Degree:
    Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Engineering, Electrical and Computer
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Autonomous Navigation of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles Subjected to Time Delays

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Aburime, Walter
    Abstract:
    This thesis presents a new method of compensating for time delays in the control and navigation of UAVs. The aerial vehicles are controlled with a coordinated lateral control. The operator signals are delayed and a bank of recursive least squares (RLS) filters are used to identify the delay and the target waypoint. Hypothesis testing is implemented to select the filter that most closely matches the delay. This filter determines the delay and the target waypoint.Once a filter is selected, the UAV then computes its heading to the estimated target waypoint. By executing the self computed heading, the UAV performs autonomous navigation to the target waypoint. The operator keeps operating the UAV and the UAV keeps track of the operator commands so that if there is a change in delay or the waypoint, the UAV learns and adjusts accordingly.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Applied Science (M.App.Sc.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Engineering, Electrical and Computer
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Is Drama the New Bullying? Differentiating Bullying and Drama Among College Students

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Magner, Katherine
    Abstract:
    Compared to research on bullying in schools and in the workplace, little is known about the prevalence and typology of bullying among college age-students. Recent research suggests that young adults may be less in favour of the term "bullying", but more open to the notion of "drama". The concept of drama has existed for some time, and is common vernacular in both media and entertainment, as well as among students and teachers. Though drama has been conceptually linked to bullying, researchers have only just begun to explore this behaviour. The goal of this dissertation was to better understand this construct of drama, and explore it in the context of bullying amongst college students. A total of five studies were conducted using first- and second- year college students exploring conceptualizations of bullying and drama, associations with common forms of aggression, personality profiles of those who engage in bullying and drama, social-cognitive predictors of behavioural decision-making, and the consequences of these behaviours on mental health and well-being. Results indicated that while there is conceptual overlap between bullying and drama, the behaviours are measurably distinct, particularly in terms of the forms of aggression they are associated with, and the traits of those who engage in these behaviours. That being said, the decision-making precursors to engagement in drama appear similar to those involved in bullying: attitudes and norms predict intent and willingness to engage in both behaviours. Finally, bullying seems to remain a salient behaviour among college students, with continued concerns for mental health and well-being, and more importantly, drama appears also to have harmful effects on the psychological adjustment of those who engage in it. The results are discussed in terms of the implications for theory, intervention, and practice in clinical and educational settings.
    Thesis Degree:
    Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Psychology
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Thermal Regime of Two Talus Slopes in Northwestern Ontario

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Bishop-Legowski, Saille Rae Simone
    Abstract:
    This thesis investigates the thermal regimes of two talus slopes near lakes Superior and Nipigon, Ontario. Mean annual air temperatures in the region are periglacial, but little work has been done on whether permafrost or anomalously cold ground exist in blocky materials in the area. Air and internal talus temperatures were recorded, and the dimensions of the rocks and the temperature at the base of the snow were measured. Internal talus temperatures increased with elevation. The talus slopes at both Doghead Mountain and Ouimet Canyon experienced an unstable thermal regime with significant convection during the winter, and a stable, stratified thermal regime with significant conduction during the summer. The summertime thermal regimes of the lower sections of the slopes were dominated by zero curtains. Thaw completion depended on the length of the zero curtain, and thus on the amount of ice in the talus. Permafrost was found in Ouimet Canyon.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Science (M.Sc.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Geography
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Corrosion Behaviour of High-Carbon High-Molybdenum Stellite Alloys in Amine Environment

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Kamal, Kafeel
    Abstract:
    Stellite alloys are cobalt-based alloys which display exceptional mechanical properties, wear and corrosion resistance owing to its unique chemical compositions. Stellite 6, which is used for hardfacing of valve trim components within control valves in boiler feedwater systems, have failed in application where hydrazine and amine derivatives are used. To find a better replacement of Stellite 6 for improved corrosion resistance, 700 series Stellite alloys, including Stellite 706, Stellite 712 and Stellite 720, are proposed, which are high-carbon high-molybdenum Stellite alloys. The corrosion performance of these alloys is studied using various testing methods in morpholine solution with pH 9.5. It is shown that these 700 series Stellite alloys are comparably better than Stellite 6 with respect to oxide film stability, general and localized corrosion resistance. The outcomes of this research suggest that 700 series Stellite alloys are good candidates for replacing Stellite 6.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Applied Science (M.App.Sc.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Engineering, Electrical and Computer
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Advances in Retrofit and Testing of Reinforced Concrete Shear Walls: Part 1 - Seismic Retrofit of Deficient Walls with Fibre-Reinforced Polymer Sheets Part 2 - Building Scale Performance Evaluation using Hybrid Simulation

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Woods, Joshua Edward
    Abstract:
    Reinforced concrete (RC) shear walls are a common lateral load resisting structural system widely used in seismically active regions. Despite the advancements in modern seismic design provisions used around the world, there is still a large inventory of RC shear wall structures designed based on older, less stringent design guidelines. Part I of this thesis describes the results of an experimental study on the effectiveness of using externally bonded carbon fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP) sheets to enhance the seismic performance of non-ductile reinforced concrete (RC) shear walls representative of low aspect ratio walls. Nine 2/3 scale RC shear wall specimens were designed to replicate structural deficiencies commonly found in older RC shear wall structures, including insufficient shear reinforcement, lack of boundary elements, lap splices within the potential plastic hinge region, and low concrete compressive strength. The wall specimens were repaired or strengthened using vertical and horizontal CFRP sheets and then cyclically tested to simulate seismic loading. Experimental results demonstrate that the CFRP retrofitting system is able to restore the original strength and initial stiffness of severely damage specimens and significantly increase the strength, ductility, and energy dissipation capacity in strengthening applications. Part II of this thesis examines the use of hybrid simulation to capture the earthquake response of a multi-storey RC shear wall structure. Hybrid simulation combines analytical modelling and experimental testing to analyze the response of a complete structural system. In this approach, hybrid simulation is able to capture the exact nonlinear behaviour of complex structural components or subassemblies through testing while at the same time supplementing it with simulation of the rest of the structure through computer modelling to capture the global response of an entire structure. The experimentally tested shear wall is taken from a three-story prototype structure. In the hybrid simulation, the first story shear wall is experimentally tested at 2/5 of its original scale and the remaining two stories of the shear wall are modelled analytically using multi-layered shell elements in OpenSees. Results of the study demonstrate that it is feasible to use hybrid simulation to capture the seismic response of a RC shear wall structure.
    Thesis Degree:
    Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Engineering, Civil
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Emotional Rhetoric in Aelfric's Letter to the Monks of Eynsham

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Cherrett, Edith Elizabeth
    Abstract:
    The Epistola Alfrici de consuetudine monachorum (Ælfric's Letter to the Monks of Eynsham) is a monastic customary written in the form of a letter in 1005 CE by Ælfric, a key figure in the Anglo-Saxon Benedictine sphere. Ælfric's Letter displays a powerful rhetorical strategy, by which Ælfric seeks to influence the emotional community of Anglo-Saxon monasticism in the eleventh century. This thesis explores his rhetorical use of pathos, ethos, and logos in the Letter to show that the layers to Aelfric's seemingly bland injunctions persuaded the reader, and displayed the emotional community he envisioned for Eynsham. I also argue that while Ælfric's audience was primarily the monks of Eynsham, the intended audience for this customary included a broader readership of reform-minded monks. The rhetoric presented in the Letter would have resonated with Ælfric's colleagues from his formative years at Winchester Abbey.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Arts (M.A.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    History
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Long-Term Effects of Juvenile NMDAr or DAr Antagonism on Adolescent Reward-Related Neurobehavioral Outcomes

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Goheen, Katherine Frances
    Abstract:
    Previous research from our laboratory found a critical period of development between postnatal day (P)18-P24 in which synaptogenesis occurs with the emergence of spatial performance. Subjects were treated with the dopamine receptor antagonist, flupenthixol or the NMDAr antagonist, MK-801 from P18-P24 and were tested in an operant conditioning procedure during adolescence. Another group of subjects were given the same drugs prior to each acquisition session to test immediate effects. Spine densities for the early treatment groups were quantified to measure structural changes in the NAc and c-Fos labeling were quantified after an DA or NMDA agonist to measure receptor desensitization. Early flupenthixol increased locomotor activity during acquisition, which corresponded with an increase in DAr sensitization in the NAc. No behavioural or structural differences were found between the early MK-801 group and saline control. Late flupenthixol decreased operant acquisition and locomotor activity, while late MK-801 increased both.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Science (M.Sc.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Neuroscience
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Broadband and Polarization Flexible SOI Grating Coupler Based on Sub-Wavelength Gratings with Low Back Reflections

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Purwaha, Neha
    Abstract:
    Optical couplers play an integral role in coupling of the guided mode from an optical fiber into a Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC). Apart from the edge couplers, grating couplers are the most extensively used optical I/O's. Grating couplers have limited application owing to their polarization selectivity and a small coupling 3-dB bandwidth of approx. 70 nm. By engineering the average effective index of the grating coupler using sub-wavelength gratings, we increased the coupling bandwidth while introducing polarization insensitivity. With the a uniform sub-wavelength grating coupler designed in this thesis, we attained 3-dB bandwidth of 105nm and 121 nm for the TE and TM polarizations, respectively. The proposed device attains a simulated coupling efficiency of -4.88dB for both TE and TM polarization at 1550 nm, resulting in zero polarization dependent loss. To the best of our knowledge, the proposed SWGC offers the best reported performance in bandwidth and polarization sensitivity.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Applied Science (M.App.Sc.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Engineering, Electrical and Computer
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Improving Adherence to Ongoing Treatments in Young Adults Through Design

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Hafezi, Sanaz
    Abstract:
    Medication non-adherence is a major issue and young adults have unique circumstances leading to non-adherence. User-centered design methods and a constructivist approach were used to address this issue through exploratory, qualitative research. An initial review of the literature framed the project scope and identified knowledge on the issues/interventions for medication adherence. Interviews were conducted with individuals in the target demographic to identify their current approach and issues with medication adherence. Information collected informed co-design sessions, which gathered information on users needs and desires to improve adherence. Results from the literature review, interview and co-design sessions were analyzed to create design considerations for a tool that assists in medication taking for the target demographic. These considerations include functional, experiential and healthcare system guidelines. Findings of this study are an initial step towards developing a solution to this issue and the methods used can be applied to future research.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Design (M.Des.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Industrial Design
    Date Created:
    2019

  • What Is the Relationship Between Alignment and Washback? A Mixed-Methods Study of the Libyan EFL Context

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Abdulhamid, Nwara
    Abstract:
    This research uses an explanatory sequential mixed-methods approach (Creswell, 2015) to examine the relationship between the degree of alignment of components of the Libyan education system and the washback of the revised Secondary Education Certificate Examination of English (rSECEE). Washback is viewed as the influence of tests on both teaching and learning within the classroom. Some have argued (e.g., Linn, 2000; Shohamy, 1997; Tan, 2008) that lack of alignment between components of an education system may result in negative washback. Applying quantitative methods, Phase I of the study, draws on Webb's (1997) alignment model to investigate the degree of alignment between the rSECEE, Libya's English as a Foreign Language (EFL) content standards, and curriculum (i.e., the standardised textbooks in this Libyan context). Subsequently, applying qualitative methods, Phase II elicited data from three Libyan EFL teachers and their students through questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, classroom observations, and focus group interviews. Both quantitative and qualitative data were analysed, synthesized and merged into one overall interpretation of the phenomenon (Creswell, 2000). The Phase I and II results indicate that: 1) there is limited-to-no degree of alignment between the rSECEE and the EFL content standards; 2) the rSECEE does not meet Webb's (1997) comprehensive criteria; 3) rSECEE appears to have had negative washback on some teachers and their teaching, but little-to-no negative washback on other teachers; 4) rSECEE may have had negative washback on learners and their learning. Accordingly, it can be argued that the washback of rSECEE is highly complex; how teachers react is highly individual; but, teachers are the key stake-holders in mediating washback. The test design and its degree of alignment with the focal construct, the prevailing culture of learning (Cortazzi & Jin, 1992), and teachers' beliefs (Woods, 1996) seems to determine the direction, intensity (Cheng, 2005; Green, 2007, Watanabe, 1996), and magnitude of washback (Fox, 2018). This study will be of interest to test developers, administrators, and policy makers, as these stake-holders require comprehensive assessment instruments that provide valid inferences about students' achievements, without undermining learning opportunities.
    Thesis Degree:
    Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Applied Linguistics and Discourse Studies
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Neonatal Respiratory Rate Monitoring Using a Pressure-Sensitive Mat

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Bekele, Amente Bullo
    Abstract:
    Pressure measurement using a Pressure Sensitive Mat (PSM) enables a non-contact approach for monitoring patient vital signs such as respiration rate (RR) and heart rate (HR). Non-contact patient monitoring in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU) can improve the quality of patient care and reduce patient discomfort. A clinical trial was conducted with the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) collecting PSM data from 15 patients in three different bed types. Algorithms for estimating RR were developed. The best RR estimation algorithm worked well when the patient is on ventilator support achieving a mean absolute error (MAE) of 3.92 +/- 6.61 bpm on clean data without patient movements or interventions. When the RR estimation algorithm is evaluated on all patients, RR estimation performance is mixed. In particular, very low mass neonates and patients laying on multiple blankets presented challenges for RR estimation.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Applied Science (M.App.Sc.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Engineering, Electrical and Computer
    Date Created:
    2019

  • A Theoretical Investigation into Instagram Hashtag Practices

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Malik, Mohammed Nasser
    Abstract:
    Hashtagging photos on Instagram represents a recent iteration of user-generated content organization. This thesis examines whether established theories of classification can explain these hashtagging practices by asking the questions "Are early conceptions of user generated classifications useful descriptors of hashtagging practices on Instagram?" And "Do older classification theories, developed prior to hashtagging practices still apply in a user generated context?" The first examines nonformal classification systems such as folksonomies while the second examines Hacking's (1986, 1996) dynamic nominalism, Bowker and Stars' (1999) case study informed definitions, and perspectives on the role of ontologies in classification. A hybrid walkthrough methodology was applied in Instagram to empirically examine the classificatory processes of content producers for thirty-five sets of hashtag pools of photos. Overall most characteristics of formal classification systems apply to Instagram user generated content and unsurprisingly, hashtagging practices on Instagram are best characterized as folksonomic.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Arts (M.A.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Communication
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Seeing Like a Community: Education, Citizenship, and Social Change in the Eastern Arctic

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Kennedy, Sheena Letitia
    Abstract:
    Relying heavily on the analyses of Inuit, this dissertation examines the implications of the historical and contemporary set of Inuit-state relations in one policy area - education - over a long period of time. It undertakes this examination by analyzing the local state and societal responses to the introduction of political, social and economic institutions that were imported from southern Canada and imposed on the Inuit societies of the Eastern Arctic.It is well known that formal schooling was used as a key instrument of colonial intervention and oppression in the Eastern Arctic, and that the legacies of this intervention continue to effect communities today. At the same time, education is often identified as an essential component of Inuit self-determination. Despite 50 years of increased political control by Inuit over education, including the creation of a "made-in- Nunavut" education system, educational outcomes have not improved dramatically, Inuit continue to call for greater local control, and the school is still seen by many to be a foreign institution.This dissertation argues that the persistent problems with the school system are symptoms of a deeper disconnect between citizens and the institutions that structure their daily lives. Building on Scott (1998) it argues that the enduring focus on the issue of local control over the education system in Nunavut is evidence of an implicit recognition by Inuit of the importance of intermediary social institutions for successful institution- and state-building.This dissertation uses qualitative methods and a multi-scalar analysis that moves between federal and territorial politics and policy on education, and a detailed microlevel examination of Igloolik society in order to explore and understand the nuances and lived-experiences of the people - the citizens - who were (and remain) directly affected by political and policy decisions made elsewhere. These experiences and lessons from Igloolik then inform an analysis of contemporary attempts by the Government of Nunavut to institute a system of education to meet the aspirations for Nunavut.
    Thesis Degree:
    Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Public Policy
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Passive Flow Control of Rotary-Wing and Fixed-Wing Aircraft Airfoils Via Surface-Based Trapped Vortex Generators

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Al-Jaburi, Khider Jabur Omran
    Abstract:
    A novel passive flow control concept for subsonic and transonic flows over 2D airfoils is proposed and examined via CFD. The control concept is based on the local modification of the airfoil geometry via a newly proposed Surface-based Trapped Vortex Generator (STVG) concept. For transonic flows, the upper surface modifications demonstrated the ability to reduce the strength of the shockwave on the upper surface of the airfoil with only a small penalty in lift, yet, with increased lift-to-drag ratio. Lower surface modifications could significantly increase the lift-to-drag ratio for the full range of the investigated angles of attack. For helicopter main rotor flows, three major contributions were made. First, the STVG control was applied to dynamic stall conditions at constant freestream. Here the aim was to mitigate the negative effects of dynamic stall, i.e. for the reduction of peak negative pitching moment while not deteriorating significantly the original lift and drag characteristics. In case of the upper surface modifications, the best geometries could reduce the peak negative pitching moment by as much as 37-63%, while sacrificing only 2-10% of peak lift and reducing drag by 14-38%. On the other hand, the lower surface modifications demonstrated the ability to increase lift by 4-16% with only minor penalty in pitching moment and drag. Second, a comprehensive methodology for simulating 2D (shock-induced) dynamic stall at fluctuating freestream was proposed in this work. The conditions were representative of the flow experienced by a helicopter rotor blade section of the UH-60A helicopter in forward flight. The results suggest that the fluctuating freestream alters the dynamic stall mechanism documented for constant freestream in a major way. Finally, the novel STVG passive flow control concept was investigated for controlling the flow in 2D shock-induced dynamic stall at fluctuating freestream. Results showed that the best geometries could reduce the peak negative pitching moment by as much as 9-23% during the transonic phase of a cycle and by as much as 19-71% during the dynamic stall phase. Also, they are able to reduce peak drag by 8-20% for the transonic phase and by 15-44% in the dynamic stall phase.
    Thesis Degree:
    Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Engineering, Aerospace
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Bringing adaptation home: Citizen engagements with climate change at home site scales in Ottawa and Halifax

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Goemans, Magdalene Cecilia
    Abstract:
    Climate change impacts are becoming increasingly evident in cities, generating hazards such as heatwaves and flooding events that may cause discomfort or trauma for residents. Climate change scholars suggest that measures undertaken on private lands provide a significant counterpart to public adaptation initiatives, and increasingly position the home site as an important scale of analysis within climate change research (Bichard & Kazmiercak, 2009; Jeffers, 2014; Pyhala et al., 2016; Wilson et al., 2014). Select scholars have also considered how municipalities may effectively engage with citizens to encourage greater home-based responses to climate-related hazards (Groulx et al., 2014; Hjerpe et al., 2014; Klein, 2014).This thesis explores citizen perspectives of climate change impacts, risk and opportunities for adaptation that are based at the scale of the urban home site in two mid-sized Canadian cities, Ottawa and Halifax. Through a qualitative research approach of discourse analysis, this thesis explores several distinct but related sub-themes: (1) how residents understand local places of climate change impacts and risk; (2) how residents engage with home site natures within a context of emerging ecosystem-based adaptation practices; and (3) how residents conceptualize the residential property in situating responsibility for managing neighbourhood stormwater flows. Within these sub-themes, I argue: (1) that places of significant climate change impacts are frequently conceptualized by residents beyond the home site; (2) that residents hold multiple conceptualizations of local natures, as reducing climate change impacts (through stormwater absorption and home cooling benefits) but also potentially contributing to additional risk (through treefalls during storms) from climate-related hazards; and (3) that ideas of property autonomy and boundaries are enacted in fluid ways by residents, as they situate obligation for neighbourhood stormwater management alternately toward individual self-governing efforts, wider municipal measures on public lands, or neighbouring free-rider private (re)development projects.Building on these key findings, municipal adaptation agencies are advised to assist residents in recognizing climate change impacts at localized scales, communicate recommended ecosystem-based adaptation measures to incorporate diverse values among residents toward home site natures, and address residents' anxieties regarding neighbouring development activities that diminish permeable land area and stormwater management potential across neighbourhoods.
    Thesis Degree:
    Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Geography
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Cross-Cultural Validity of Actuarial Risk Assessment Instruments for Individuals in North America with a History of Sexual Offending: Static-99R and Static-2002R

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Lee, Seung Chan
    Abstract:
    The goal of this dissertation was to evaluate the cultural bias in predictive accuracy of widely used actuarial risk assessment instruments, Static-99R and Static-2002R, for the overrepresented ethnic minority groups in the criminal justice system in Canada (Indigenous peoples) and the U.S. (Blacks and Hispanics).Study 1 evaluated the predictive validity of Static-99R across three major ethnic groups (Whites, Blacks, and Hispanic peoples) in the State of California. Static-99R was able to discriminate recidivists from non-recidivists among Whites, Blacks, and Hispanics with a history of sexual crimes (all AUC values >.70). The current findings support the use of Static-99R in risk assessment procedures for individuals of White, Black, and Hispanic heritage.Study 2 compares the characteristics and risk factors for non-Hispanic Whites and Blacks who had been convicted of a sexual crime in New Jersey, USA. The results indicated that Whites appeared more paraphilic, whereas Blacks displayed higher anti-sociality. Despite the differences, the Static-99R predicted equally well for both racial groups: Whites (AUC = .76) and Blacks (AUC = .78). The findings suggest that there may be opportunities to improve treatment for the individuals at risk for sexual offending by tailoring interventions to the distinctive risk-relevant characteristics of Whites and Blacks.Study 3 examined the predictive accuracy of Static-99R and Static-2002R for Whites and Indigenous individuals who have a history of sexual crimes. The results indicated that Static-99R predicted sexual recidivism with similar accuracy for the Indigenous and White study groups whereas Static-2002R predicted sexual recidivism only for Whites. The White study group showed more indicators of paraphilic interests whereas the Indigenous study group displayed higher general criminality. The findings suggest that the treatment for the individuals at risk for sexual offending may benefit from an increased focus on the distinctive risk-relevant characteristics of Whites and Indigenous peoples.In conclusion, there is sufficient evidence to justify the use of the Static-99R for assessing the likelihood of sexual recidivism for certain ethnic minority groups (Blacks, Hispanics, and Indigenous peoples). In contrast, considerable caution is needed when interpreting the results of Static-2002R for individuals of Indigenous heritage.
    Thesis Degree:
    Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Psychology
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Development of a Novel Pressure-Sensitive Mat Using Proximity Sensors

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Selzler, Roger Cristiano Degasperi
    Abstract:
    Pressure sensitive mats (PSM) have been widely used in research for measuring contact pressure. In the field of non-obtrusive patient monitoring, PSM have been used in a number of applications including finding the center of pressure for patients in different positions, monitoring heart and breathing rates of a patient laying on a bed, and monitoring and controlling the amount of time in which a patient remains in the same position, thus avoiding pressure ulcers. However, the cost of such devices remains high, and the deployment of PSMs in clinical practice is rare. This thesis presents the design of a new pressure sensitive mat technology using infrared proximity sensors and evaluates its performance relative to the state of the art. Results suggest that the novel PSM technology can be used in clinical settings for non-obtrusive patient monitoring, with advantages related to low cost, very low noise, and robust linearity of measurements.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Applied Science (M.App.Sc.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Engineering, Electrical and Computer
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Fouling Indices for Quantification of Natural Organic Matter Fouling and Cleaning in Ceramic and Polymeric Membrane Systems

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Alresheedi, Mohammad Tammah
    Abstract:
    A key challenge in membrane system is to understand how operating pressure and water temperature may impact fouling and subsequent cleaning in relationship to NOM. Further there is limited data to ascertain if ultrafiltration (UF) polymeric and ceramic systems will respond in similar or different manners to NOM fouling which then further impacts how respective systems need to be cleaned. This research investigated the application of the MFI-UF in complement with the UMFI for assessing NOM fouling and cleaning under changes in filtration conditions with both ceramic and polymeric membranes systems. The research showed that all NOM types exhibited higher MFI-UF values, and therefore, higher fouling propensity as pressure increased from 1 to 3 bars and water temperature decreased from 35°C to 5°C indicating the effect of pressure and temperature on the MFI-UF fouling prediction. The NOM fouling potential order was consistent at different temperature which was the highest for the NOM mixture and proteins (BSA) followed by alginate and lastly humic acid. Variation in feed water temperature in polymeric and ceramic membrane systems demonstrated negative impacts on NOM fouling and cleaning. NOM fouling increased as water temperature decreased from 20°C to 5°C while fouling decreased as temperature increased from 20°C to 35°C. The UMFI analysis showed that irreversible NOM fouling ratios increased at cold water condition (5 °C), along with decreased in backwash and chemical cleaning effectiveness of both membrane types. The UMFI results obtained in the polymeric and ceramic UF systems demonstrated useful fit with the MFI-UF prediction for establishing NOM fouling trend and order with temperature. Under an equivalent fouling and cleaning conditions, NOM fouling order of a ceramic UF membrane was found to be similar to their polymeric counterparts. However, the ceramic UF demonstrated better performance in terms of backwashing, thus, lower irreversible fouling. Chemical cleaning of a ceramic UF membrane using O3 CIP for 1 hour at a ratio of 0.50 mgO3/mgC demonstrated higher reduction of irreversible fouling of hydrophobic and hydrophilic NOM fractions and lower sensitivity to water quality conditions compared to 4 hours cleaning using combined NaOCl and NaOH CIP.
    Thesis Degree:
    Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Engineering, Environmental
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Shielded from Public View: An Analysis of the Media’s Construction of Deaths in Canadian Custody

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Kiefer, Janine
    Abstract:
    This study explores how the deaths of four incarcerated individuals are constructed by Canadian news media outlets. For this research, I conducted a multiple case study concerning the deaths of Edward Snowshoe, Kinew James, Matthew Hines and Adam Kargus, all of whom died while incarcerated in a provincial or federal facility in Canada. Rooted in a cultural criminology framework and, utilizing Brown's (2009) concept of penal spectatorship and Butler's (2004) concept of grievable life, I explore how the media presents the deaths of these individuals in ways that may confer or restrict grievability and how these representations may undermine or reinforce the legitimacy of the prison. The findings of this research suggest that while these narratives may present certain criticisms of the prison, they ultimately rely on a framework, which reinforces the necessity of the prison and subjugates other forms of critical knowledge.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Arts (M.A.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Sociology
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Three Essays on the Survival Time of Firms and Their Growth

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Kavand, Hossein
    Abstract:
    The first essay in this dissertation uses US iron and steel shipbuilding data (1825-1914) used by Thompson (2005). It proposes a Two-Stage Discrete Finite Mixture hazard model to account for selection effect associated with a high first-year exit rate, and omitted variable bias associated with missing information such as a shipbuilder's pre-entry experience. In the first stage, the model uses a Probit model to explain the selection effect by employing both a firm's production share and production-selection component at the time of entry as exclusion restrictions. The results identify two latent classes as proxies for pre-entry experience used in the Weibull model by Thompson. The model is useful when important factors for new-firm survival, such as human capital, might be missing from databases.The second essay examines whether starting with different types of bank credit has a heterogeneous effect on the future performance of small business in the Kauffman Firm Survey (2004-2011) (KFS). The analysis uses a structural equation model to account for endogeneity bias, entailing three interrelated equations: one for the firm's survival time, one for its start-up with a type of bank credit, and one for its revenue in 2007. To identify high-quality firms starting with business credit, the model employs three exclusion restrictions: a firm's entry share of tangible assets in its cohort; the entry-selection component of tangible assets, and per-capita state-level secured loans. The results reveal a positive endogenous treatment effect on a firm's future revenue when starting with business credit, and a negative one when starting with personal credit.The third essay evaluates the direct effect of knowledge spillover on small businesses in the KFS. It investigates whether their entrepreneurs could transform abstract knowledge into economic knowledge. Knowledge spillover can take place when a firm directly collaborates with other institutions or firms. To identify the causality effect, the empirical analysis uses collaboration as a proxy for transformed knowledge. To improve identification, it implements a Combined Difference in Difference approach. The results indicate that firms teaming with other institutions outperform those without such treatment. Teaming induces higher growth in real revenue, employment size, and real wages.
    Thesis Degree:
    Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Economics
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Making Modern Self Through White Marriage: Living Together Without Marriage in Tehran, Iran

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Golestaneh, Mehrnaz
    Abstract:
    This dissertation uses the phenomenon of "white marriage" among young heterosexual middle class Iranian women and men, who choose to live together without religious and legal documentation, as the focus to provide a window into the transformation of intimacy in contemporary Iran within a globalized world. In addition to explaining theoretical approach and methodology, throughout the first couple of chapters, I contextualize white marriage as in deeper socio-historical layers in relation to freedom of choice. Based on interviews with individuals in white marriages as well as analyses of textual data, this dissertation examines how Iranian middle class women and men in white marriages understand this mode of intimate relationship within the context of Iran's marriage norms and the global dominance of western culture. By investigating the categorization of white marriage, and conceptualizations of commitment, fertility and relationships with extended family, this dissertation offers an account of the different motivations and desires bound up in the making of the modern self through white marriage. I argue that white marriage signifies that sexuality, gender and class are emerging as fault lines in contemporary Iranian society, with notions of intimacy, love, body and self-being constructed by Iranian middle class women and men in reaction to western culture and to marital norms in Iran. Iranians in white marriages formulate their desires and construct their subculture in relation to global cultural forces on the one hand and articulate their understanding of cultural marital norms in Iran on the other. However, media discussions about white marriage, reflected in textual data, demonstrated different understandings of the phenomenon. I have identified three phases in media discussions related to white marriage: the first is silence and denial; the second is a prohibitive approach with religious and moralistic approach and the third is a management approach concerned with health and population. Thus, a diverse set of organized interests come into play to settle the phenomenon of white marriage in a variety of ways.
    Thesis Degree:
    Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Sociology
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Children and Adults' Perception of Signal Colours, Symbols, and Words in the Context of Cybersecurity Warnings

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Jeong, Rebecca
    Abstract:
    Research has shown that online security warnings are frequently ignored or misinterpreted by even experienced adult users. Children may be particularly vulnerable because they are not always aware of the risks associated with online threats. Existing work relating to cybersecurity warnings has been done with adults and there are few recommendations for children. We explore this research gap through two user studies with 22 children aged 10-12 years old and with 22 adults. We compare children and adults' perception of warning design parameters (signal colours, symbols, and words) in the context of cybersecurity warnings. Our findings suggest that while there are many similarities in how both groups interpret the signal items, differences exist which should be taken into consideration when designing for children. We adapt existing warning design guidelines by Bauer et al. to provide recommendations for warnings that effectively communicate risk to children.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Arts (M.A.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Human-Computer Interaction
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Communicating the EU in Europhile and Eurosceptic Spaces: An Examination of European Parliament Information Offices in the Republic of Ireland and Greece

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Bakoulas, Angelos
    Abstract:
    This thesis examines the communication strategies of the European Parliament (EP) in member states through its information offices in EU capitals. To address the gap between public perceptions of the EP as a weak body and its real impact in EU decision-making, the ways in which it communicates itself to citizens through its offices is investigated. This is combined with an analysis of journalists' coverage of the EP and their cooperation with EP information offices. This examination is based on qualitative interviews with EP officials and journalists from Greece and Ireland. Despite the shared experiences of the two countries during the Eurozone crisis, they have diverged significantly socio-politically and in their attitudes to the EU. This thesis concludes that even though the mission of the EP is expressed quite similarly across both states a lot more specification and political will is necessary for an effective communication strategy to be established.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Arts (M.A.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Political Science
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Fair and Efficient Resource Management in Heterogeneous Cloud Environments

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Khamse Ashari, Jalal
    Abstract:
    Cloud computing has become increasingly popular as it provides a cost-effective alternative to proprietary high-performance computing systems. As the workloads to data-centers housing cloud computing platforms are intensively growing, developing an efficient and fair resource allocation/scheduling mechanism which guarantees quality-of-service for different users has become increasingly important. Fair resource management (i.e. allocation or scheduling) in such a shared computing system is particularly challenging because of the following reasons: (a) the presence of multiple types of resources, (b) diversity in the users' resource demands, (c) heterogeneity of servers, and (d) placement constraints. On the other hand, efficiency may have different implications in a cloud environment depending on the underlying deployment (public vs private clouds). E.g., in a small-scale private cloud one may need to maximize resource efficiency (utilization). However in a large-scale public cloud (with substantially varying operational costs across different servers), one may need to minimize the operational costs at the same time in order to achieve an efficient resource allocation.To address the above complexities, we fifirst consider a single-resource private setting wherein we study fair scheduling of users onto multiple heterogeneous servers in the presence of placement constraints. Next, we study efficient and fair allocation of multiple types of resources in an environment of heterogeneous servers in the presence of user placement constraints in private clouds. Towards this, we formulate the multi-resource allocation problem as a game among different servers, where each server strives to maximize a per-server objective, which governs resource efficiency and fairness at the same time. Such a server-based approach not only results in a fully distributed implementation but also is shown to satisfy several fairness-related properties which are generally deemed desirable. Finally, we study cost-efficient and fair allocation of resources which can be desirable for a public cloud service provider. Again, we follow a server-based approach wherein a local metric is used to allocate resources at each server. Here we propose two different ways to incorporate the impact of operational costs into the per-server objectives/metrics, each providing fairness in a different sense. In addition to analytical results, we also employ numerical experiments to show the effectiveness of our proposed mechanism in each case.
    Thesis Degree:
    Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Engineering, Electrical and Computer
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Spacecraft Pose Estimation Using a Monocular Camera

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Shi, Jian-Feng
    Abstract:
    Spacecraft pose estimation is an essential input to the Guidance, Navigation and Control process. Pose estimation based on monocular camera images does not require modifications to the target vehicle and has fewer resource requirements than LIDAR systems. We provide a comprehensive investigation and novel contributions in foreground recognition and extraction, image feature generation, and pose estimation. We evaluated $12$ image feature detector and descriptor performances and proposed a new biologically inspired image descriptor. We also assessed the bag of visual words codebook technique for object localisation and evaluated linear, non-linear and non-parametric classifiers. We tested the ResNet and Inception-ResNet convolutional neural networks on target localisation. We developed compact semantic segmentation autoencoders based on AlexNet, U-Net and VGG. We made several new contributions in the image saliency generation. First, we developed a novel principal component analysis based formula for graph manifold ranking Optimal Affinity Matrix inversion which reduces computation time and stabilises the ranking inversion process. We developed a novel weighted gradient orientation histogram feature for monochromatic image superpixel identification and provided three enhanced versions of the graph manifold ranking tested on $32,536$ images. Our technique out-performs the state-of-the-art saliency method in precision and our fastest method is $12{\times}$ faster than the original graph manifold ranking technique. We introduce an innovative false-coloured high-frequency salient feature image to enhance foreground and background pixel histogram distinction. We propose a novel space background classification scheme using pixel statistics to detect Earth passage. We evaluated appearance based pose matching using principal components analysis, SoftPOSIT and $e$P$n$P for pose estimation. We propose a novel homography transform projection method that simplifies the perspective-$n$-point correspondence. We introduce improvements to the SoftPOSIT initiation to reduce the effects of local minimum trapping using centroid matching. We developed region-based pose estimation using level-set segmentation and pixel statistics. Our tests show the region-based method out-performs the appearance-based and point-based methods in speed, precision and stability.
    Thesis Degree:
    Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Engineering, Aerospace
    Date Created:
    2019

  • The Effect of Object Selection and Operator Movement on Situation Awareness in Virtual Reality

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Krukowski, Danielle
    Abstract:
    Virtual reality provides an immersive visual environment that has been used in airborne surveillance tasks. The way in which operators interact with a virtual environment has been seen to influence their situation awareness and physical stress. The present work examines three aspects of interface design within a virtual space: object selection, operator movement, and search method. In two experiments, participants were immersed in a virtual environment and completed a search task and a recall task that mimicked operations seen in airborne surveillance to get measures of situation awareness and physical stress. Additionally, in the second experiment, measures of mental workload were incorporated through a peripheral detection task to examine available cognitive resources. Although all interface designs showed associated advantages and disadvantages, results from the experiments indicated that operator situation awareness and/or physical stress are benefited by a head-gaze selection method, a teleportation movement, and an origin-based search method.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Cognitive Science (M.Cog.Sc.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Cognitive Science
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Performance Estimation and Fault Diagnostics for the Starter of Auxiliary Power Unit

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Zhang, Yu
    Abstract:
    An electric starter provides initial power to run the Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) during the starting process. As the starter degrades, its output power declines which, as a result, affects the APU starting performance, and eventually leads to the starting failure. Therefore, a reliable starter health condition monitoring system is necessary to estimate the starter's degradation, diagnose its fault, and prevent its malfunction. Some research works have been reported in the literature for starter performance estimation and fault diagnostics, however, these prior works typically employ statistical analysis and data-driven methods, which are not physically interpretable and in some cases, are not reliable. Accordingly, the objective of this thesis is to develop a physics-based diagnostic scheme for the starter performance degradation estimation to improve fault diagnostics reliability.
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Applied Science (M.App.Sc.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Engineering, Aerospace
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Inhibitory Effects of Hydrolyzed Oat Bran Proteins on Human LDL Oxidation and Their Bile Acid Binding Capacity

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Campos Espinosa, Gabriela Yunuen
    Abstract:
    The aim of this project was; 1) to produce and characterize various hydrolyzed proteins from oat brans; 2) determine their antioxidant, metal binding and bile biding capacities as well their ability to inhibit low-density lipoprotein (LDL) oxidation. Medium oat bran samples treated with (cellulase and viscozyme) were digested with five proteases protamex, alcalase, flavourzyme, pepsin and pepsin+pancreatin. VPI-pepsin better scavenged ROO• radicals (496.77±5.83 μM(TE)/g) while VPI-flavourzyme and VPI-pepsin had better quenching for HO• (27.95 ±1.580 and and O2•- (45.31±6.6%) radicals, respectively. VPI-protamex exhibited the best Cu2+ chelating capacity (59.83±1.40%). All hydrolysates protected human LDL against Cu2+ mediated oxidation by reducing the concentration of hydroperoxides from 158.4 to 74.4-97.7 μMH2O2/mg. There was a binding of up to 46.3% for taurodeoxycholate and taurocholate. VPI alcalase proteins displayed the highest activity in the most assay and consequently separated into eleven fractions (F1-F11) (HPLC).
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Science (M.Sc.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Chemistry
    Date Created:
    2019

  • Women Offender Assessment: Can Gender-Informed Variables Improve Prediction of Institutional Outcomes?

    Resource Type:
    Thesis
    Creator:
    Bedard, Theresia
    Abstract:
    The Custody Rating Scale (CRS) is utilized by Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) in classification of women offenders; it is gender-neutral. The purpose of the study was to examine if gender-informed domains predict misconducts in women offenders. Gender-informed items that were predictive were used to create the Gender-Informed Version 1 Continuous, Gender-Informed Version 2 Continuous, Gender-Informed Version 1 Trichotomized and Gender-Informed Version 2 Trichotomized scales. The scales were tested to determine if they yield incremental predictive validity beyond the CRS. A sample of 1,528 federally sentenced women was analyzed. Results found addition of gender-informed variables improved the incremental predictive validity of the CRS. This was found for non-Indigenous offenders, but results for Indigenous offenders were mixed. Findings supported the inclusion of gender-informed factors to the CRS. Implications for CSC and future research directions are discussed.Keywords:gender-informed predictors, classification, institutional misconduct
    Thesis Degree:
    Master of Arts (M.A.)
    Thesis Degree Discipline:
    Psychology
    Date Created:
    2019